Technology Association of Iowa Announces 2026 State Policy Priorities and Federal Agenda
DES MOINES, Iowa (December 15, 2025) – The Technology Association of Iowa (TAI) today announced its 2026 State and Federal Principles and Policy Priorities ahead of the upcoming Iowa legislative session. Developed in partnership with TAI’s Public Policy Committee, these priorities will guide the association’s policy efforts in the year ahead.
“We are excited to advance policies that fuel innovation, growth, and opportunity for Iowa’s economy,” said Brian Waller, President of the Technology Association of Iowa. “Our 2026 priorities focus on critical areas, including artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, and data privacy, while also supporting initiatives that prepare students for future-ready careers and expand access to opportunity for all Iowans. By working collaboratively across industries and communities, we are committed to positioning Iowa as a leader in technology and innovation.”
2026 State Public Policy Priorities:
- Artificial Intelligence: Empower Iowa businesses to lead in developing and deploying AI responsibly by fostering safe and ethical practices, providing education on practical applications, and championing a collaborative, forward-thinking approach
- Cybersecurity: Build awareness of known and emerging cyber threats and incentivize effective cybersecurity practices to protect Iowans and their data
- Data Privacy: Ensure standardized data privacy policies to facilitate Iowans’ access, control, and understanding of private data and its usage
- Connectivity: Facilitate high-performance internet connectivity using the best available technologies for all Iowans
- Workforce: Support efforts to attract, retain, and develop technology talent in Iowa
- Business Growth: Support funding for programs that drive growth and innovation in Iowa businesses and communities
2026 Public Policy Principles:
- Champion policies that attract human and financial capital to Iowa
- Elevate Iowa (rural and urban) as the premier state for technology workforce
- Ensure Iowa’s K-12 through college education systems prepare Iowa students for successful high-tech careers
- Support the investment, development, implementation, and ethical use of emerging technologies in Iowa
2026 Federal Agenda:
The Technology Association of Iowa is the leader in advocacy for technology-enabled companies and emerging technologies in Iowa. As the voice calling for a technology-forward, pro-growth, business-focused agenda, TAI promotes policies that:
Develop, Attract and Retain a Highly Skilled, Technical Workforce
- Increase access to a highly-skilled, global workforce
- Support K-12 through college STEM education
Invest in Infrastructure Necessary for a Thriving Technology Ecosystem
- Foster a competitive Artificial Intelligence (AI) Ecosystem
- Invest in cybersecurity efforts to safeguard critical infrastructure against evolving global threats
- Federal uniformity of data privacy legislation and reporting requirements
- Facilitate access to high-performance internet connectivity
Promote Innovation and Company Growth
- Encourage innovation through the safe and ethical development and deployment of emerging technologies
- Tax policy that incentivizes innovation, growth and competitiveness
- Increase access to capital for early-stage companies
Ways To Get Involved:
AI Public Policy Forum & Legislative Reception
Join TAI on February 4, 2026, for a forward-looking conversation on how artificial intelligence is transforming the way Iowa businesses operate, compete, and innovate. The AI Public Policy Forum & Legislative Reception brings together technology executives, practitioners, lawmakers, and community leaders to examine the real-world impact of AI across industries—and the policy frameworks needed to support responsible use and application.
A legislative reception will follow the forum, offering an opportunity to continue the conversation, build connections, and explore TAI’s 2026 policy initiatives. Drinks and hors d’oeuvres provided.
For event details and registration, click here.
Join TAI’s Public Policy Committee
TAI’s Public Policy Committee plays a vital role in shaping Iowa’s technology policy landscape. The committee supports TAI’s advocacy work by monitoring key legislation, educating stakeholders, and raising awareness of issues that impact Iowa’s tech industry. The committee meets virtually and is open to all TAI members. Submit your interest here.
Subscribe to the Iowa Tech Policy Newsletter
Stay informed throughout the legislative session and beyond. The Iowa Tech Policy Newsletter delivers timely updates, analysis, and insights on the policies shaping Iowa’s innovation economy. Subscribe here.
Contact Us
For more information regarding TAI’s public policy efforts, please contact:
Mollie Ross, Vice President of Operations & Government Affairs, at (515) 280-3729 or at mollie@technologyiowa.org.
About the Technology Association of Iowa (TAI)
The Technology Association of Iowa guides public policy, develops talent, and invests in our state’s innovation ecosystem. Since 1997, we’ve united technology professionals and leaders to bolster economic prosperity across industries. Our members champion a clear truth: Technology is the cornerstone of Iowa’s growth — and innovation is every Iowan’s business.
Get involved at technologyiowa.org and follow us on LinkedIn.
Media Contact:
Nick Donovan
Vice President, Marketing and Communications
Technology Association of Iowa
nick@technologyiowa.org
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