Tag: Government

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Prevention groups fear consequences from Noem’s proposal to reduce funding for anti-tobacco efforts

Gary Dickson

An anti-smoking group warns that reducing South Dakota’s Tobacco Prevention and Reduction Trust Fund from $5 million to $2 million could significantly harm public health. The fund supports the QuitLine and prevention programs, which are crucial as tobacco tax revenues decline. Critics emphasize the importance of maintaining funding to combat rising nicotine use among youth. Continue reading Prevention groups fear consequences from Noem’s proposal to reduce funding for anti-tobacco efforts

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Change is ‘eminent’: Property-rights fight transforms this year’s SD Legislature

Gary Dickson

In South Dakota, opposition to a carbon dioxide pipeline led to significant political changes. Legislators who supported the contested pipeline legislation were ousted, and new leadership aimed to address landowners’ concerns. Voters rejected a related bill, highlighting growing grassroots mobilization focused on property rights and the potential misuse of eminent domain for pipeline projects. Continue reading Change is ‘eminent’: Property-rights fight transforms this year’s SD Legislature

Government, Justice, PoliticsLeave a comment
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Iowa House panel advances bill limiting release of police mugshots

Gary Dickson

A subcommittee in the Iowa House passed a bill restricting public access to mugshots of arrested individuals until after conviction, with certain public safety exceptions. Lobbyists expressed concerns over potential issues in the bill’s language and recommended amendments. The bill aims to protect arrested individuals from judgment before legal proceedings. Continue reading Iowa House panel advances bill limiting release of police mugshots

Environment, Government, JusticeLeave a comment
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State receives notice of potential lawsuit over McCook Lake flood response

Gary Dickson

South Dakota faces potential lawsuits from McCook Lake property owners due to severe flood damage linked to state flood diversion efforts. Residents allege inadequate warning and communication about the risks as authorities diverted floodwaters, resulting in devastation. State officials defended their actions while acknowledging the gravity of the situation and ongoing legal concerns. Continue reading State receives notice of potential lawsuit over McCook Lake flood response

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Attorney general and others know: Noem’s public broadcasting cut threatens public safety

Gary Dickson

South Dakota Governor Kristi Noem’s proposed budget cuts threaten the funding of South Dakota Public Broadcasting, which supports a vital communication network for emergency services and public alerts. The potential loss of over $3.6 million could jeopardize infrastructure relied upon by law enforcement and local emergency responders, endangering public safety. Continue reading Attorney general and others know: Noem’s public broadcasting cut threatens public safety

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Time to make some noise about cancer in Iowa

Gary Dickson

Iowa has the second-highest cancer rates in the U.S., with a sharp rise in breast, prostate, and lung cancer cases, particularly in Northwest Iowa. Concerns about agricultural pollution and the lack of legislative action have prompted local meetings to urge citizens to advocate for clean air and water. Voter influence is essential for change. Continue reading Time to make some noise about cancer in Iowa

JusticeLeave a comment
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Former South Dakota attorney general fights suspension of Iowa law license

Gary Dickson

Jason Ravnsborg, former South Dakota attorney general, faces a proposed six-month suspension of his Iowa law license following his impeachment after a traffic accident that killed pedestrian Joe Boever in 2020. He contests the suspension, arguing its severity and alleging government interference in the investigation. A hearing is scheduled for January 22, 2025. Continue reading Former South Dakota attorney general fights suspension of Iowa law license

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Trump lawsuit targeting Register’s Iowa Poll is off base

Gary Dickson

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

Commentary, North Sioux City2 Comments
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It’s critical that North Sioux City residents show up to vote on Dec. 10

Gary Dickson

North Sioux City voters face a crucial decision on December 10 regarding their city government structure. A petition proposes replacing the current aldermanic system with a five-commissioner model, but critics argue this could lead to uneven representation and fiscal uncertainty. Low voter turnout may benefit proponents of the change, raising concerns about informed decision-making. Continue reading It’s critical that North Sioux City residents show up to vote on Dec. 10