Q: Where should Iowans go if they have problems dealing with the federal government?
A: Iowans often come to my offices looking for guidance about how to navigate the federal bureaucracy. Unfortunately, many times it's after unsuccessful attempts they've made on their own to try to solve problems involving a federal government program. Problems range from being caught in bureaucratic red tape, finding a federal agency unresponsive, or feeling they have been specifically harmed by federal government actions. As one of Iowa's two United States Senators, helping Iowans navigate the federal bureaucracy is one of my most important responsibilities. By knowing about the difficulties Iowans experience with federal agencies, I can better perform government oversight and work to help solve problems for Iowans. Dedicated staff in my Iowa offices in Cedar Rapids, Council Bluffs, Davenport, Des Moines, Sioux City and Waterloo are trained to assist Iowans who experience problems with federal government agencies. These constituent service specialists are located in all of my Iowa offices so they are close by to help.
Q: What is the proper way to initiate casework with your office?
A: Iowans should first contact any of my offices. Once the first contact is made, my staff will ask for a privacy release form to be completed and signed. This enables my staff to ask the appropriate federal agencies for information on your behalf. We can then begin to work through the issues you have with the agency. All casework is handled in a confidential manner. I can't guarantee a certain outcome, but I'm committed to making sure government officials give attention to your concerns and respond one way or another.
Q: How do I get in contact with your office?
A: My offices are open to serve Iowans. In Iowa the phone numbers are: Cedar Rapids – (319)363-6832, Council Bluffs – (712)322-7103, Davenport – (563)322-4331, Des Moines – (515)288-1145, Sioux City – (712)233-1860, and Waterloo – (319)232-6657. You can also send an email to casework@grassley.senate.gov, or visit http://grassley.senate.gov for more information.
Q: Are there certain issues you aren't allowed to help Iowans with?
A: My office isn't able to intervene in criminal and civil matters such as legal disputes, child custody matters and divorce cases due to the constitutional separation of the legislative and judicial branches of government. For assistance with those kinds of issues, Iowans should call the Iowa Bar Association Lawyer Referral Service at 1-800-532-1108.