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Trump lawsuit targeting Register’s Iowa Poll is off base

Donald Trump filed a lawsuit against J. Ann Selzer and the Des Moines Register, claiming a poll showing Kamala Harris leading in Iowa constituted election interference. While Iowa Governor Kim Reynolds endorsed Ron DeSantis, asserting Trump couldn’t win, the lawsuit raises questions about the validity of these claims amidst conflicting poll results. Continue reading Trump lawsuit targeting Register’s Iowa Poll is off base

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Bird flu detected in Iowa flock for fourth time in less than a week

Highly pathogenic avian influenza has been detected in a commercial turkey flock in Sac County, Iowa. Four cases were confirmed recently, prompting a disaster proclamation from Governor Reynolds. The risk to humans remains low as officials encourage monitoring and biosecurity measures. Continue reading Bird flu detected in Iowa flock for fourth time in less than a week

Iowa Lt. Governor Adam Gregg is leaving his position to focus on family

Iowa’s Lt. Gov. Adam Gregg resigned to prioritize family, praised by Gov. Reynolds and Iowa AG Bird. Reynolds to appoint replacement. Graduated from Central College and Drake University Law School. Previously ran for Attorney General of Iowa and served as Iowa State Public Defender. Married to Cari, with two children. Resignation effective September 3, 2024. Continue reading Iowa Lt. Governor Adam Gregg is leaving his position to focus on family

‘This is scandalous:’ Auditor asked to examine $10.7 million owed to taxpayers

Iowa nursing home companies owe over $10.7 million in unpaid fees, with one company’s executives making significant political donations. The state lacks enforcement authority to collect these fees, leading to concerns about misuse of Medicaid reimbursement funds. Advocates are calling for an investigation to ensure proper use of additional revenue and to address the industry’s lack of compliance. Continue reading ‘This is scandalous:’ Auditor asked to examine $10.7 million owed to taxpayers

Reynolds, Congress members protest federal child labor law enforcement

The Iowa Legislature’s changes to child labor laws in 2023, including extended work hours and expanded job opportunities for teens, have triggered criticism from Gov. Kim Reynolds and the state’s congressional delegation. They accuse the US Department of Labor of unfairly penalizing Iowa businesses for complying with state regulations, raising concerns about excessive fines and federal interference. Continue reading Reynolds, Congress members protest federal child labor law enforcement

The unsaid words that matter most in Noem’s feud with tribes

South Dakota Governor Kristi Noem faces challenges in her relationship with Native American tribes. The Flandreau Santee Sioux Tribe’s ban on her entry to tribal lands prompted reflection on her rhetoric and actions. Noem’s comments about tribal leadership and drug cartels were criticized and an apology is seen as a potential path to reconciliation and improved relations. Continue reading The unsaid words that matter most in Noem’s feud with tribes

Iowa GOP reaction to Trump verdict misses the key point

Iowa’s top Republicans unanimously criticized the guilty verdict against Donald Trump, but none declared his innocence. The focus was on the trial being politically motivated, raising concerns about their views on the American legal system. State Auditor Rob Sand emphasized respect for juries, highlighting the importance of citizen judgment, which is crucial beyond political implications. Continue reading Iowa GOP reaction to Trump verdict misses the key point

Your guide to which bills survived the first legislative ‘funnel’ (and which didn’t)

Most of the priority bills proposed by Iowa Gov. Kim Reynolds and Republican legislators made it through the first major deadline for the 2024 legislative session. But the details of many of those major bills are still subject to change in the coming weeks.

In her Condition of the State speech in January, Reynolds laid out goals to make significant changes to Iowa’s Area Education Agencies and the state’s mental health care system. She also announced plans to merge or cut many of the state’s boards and commissions.

Lawmakers moved bills on these issues, and many more, through the committee process in the past week. Most legislation had to be passed by a committee in at least one chamber by the end of “funnel week” to remain eligible for consideration during the session.

Here’s a rundown of some of the notable bills that survived – and some that did not – during the first funnel week: Continue reading Your guide to which bills survived the first legislative ‘funnel’ (and which didn’t)