Iowa panel takes up economic development budget

DES MOINES, Iowa (AP) -- Iowa lawmakers are set to hash out their differences on the state's economic development budget.

The joint committee will meet Tuesday to work on a compromise between the House and Senate versions of the economic development budget. The Senate seeks $78 million and the House wants $45 million.

The measure includes funding for Iowa Workforce Development, the Economic Development Authority, Department of Cultural Affairs, Iowa Finance Authority, Public Employment Relations Board and initiatives at Iowa's three public universities.

Waterloo Democratic Sen. Bill Dotzler says the Senate plan provides funds to reopen five unemployment offices.

That issue has been contentious, as Gov. Terry Branstad's decision to close unemployment office prompted a 2012 Iowa Supreme Court ruling that he overstepped his authority by vetoing some funding for Iowa Workforce Development.