An Iowa State graduate and Ames resident, Cecilia Burnett focuses on environmental issues in her campaign for reelection to the Iowa House of Representatives.

Burnett, democratic candidate for the 61st district, graduated from Iowa State with honors in wildlife biology and journalism. Since 1985, she has worked as environmental educator for the Story County Conservation Board. With a strong background in environmental issues, Burnett is aware of the problems facing Iowans.

“One of the biggest issues that is going to face the Iowa legislature is hog factories,” Burnett said.

Burnett said hog factories create problems such as odor and ground water contamination. According to a press release, she has fought for tougher enforcement and local control of such hog facilities.

Burnett is also concerned with what she calls “quality of life issues.” One of those issues is Iowa’s Resource Enhancement and Protection (REAP) program. She said REAP is “probably one of the most monumental pieces of legislation passed last year.”

“It’s a wonderful program,” Burnett said, of the legislation which provides funding for city, county and state parks and recreation areas.

Burnett’s legislative record includes a 99 percent voting record. She is a member of the Agriculture, Environmental Protection and Human Resources Committees.

Burnett said she has fought for undergraduate and work study programs, for the library, and for the veterinary medicine and engineering colleges at Iowa State.

“I am a graduate of Iowa State University,” said Burnett. “I know what it means to promote a quality, accessible and affordable education for the people of the state. We need to make sure it’s affordable to all Iowans.”