Lonna Carroll, a former employee of the South Dakota Department of Social Services, pleaded not guilty to stealing $1.8 million in state and federal funds over 13 years. She faces two felony counts of aggravated grand theft and could be sentenced to 40 years in prison. The state lawmakers plan to hold a hearing on the alleged theft. Continue reading Former state employee pleads not guilty in $1.8 million theft case
The Iowa Department of Natural Resources is investigating a diesel spill in a tributary of Willow Creek in Monona County. The spill occurred when a pickup truck carrying red diesel crashed, causing the contents to empty into the water. Booms have been deployed to contain the spill, and the driver is cooperating with the authorities for cleanup. Continue reading Diesel spill near Mapleton reaches Willow Creek
State and city food inspectors have cited Iowa and South Dakota establishments for food safety violations, including dirty facilities, moldy equipment, and rodent infestations. Violations included mishandling food, lack of proper storage, and repeat violations. Inspectors noted issues such as staff using dirty sinks, soiled equipment, and improper food storage. Continue reading Restaurant inspection update
The South Dakota Supreme Court ruled that Summit Carbon Solutions has not proven its right to take private land for its carbon-capture pipeline project. The company plans to appeal, claiming it qualifies as a common carrier. Landowners and lawmakers see the ruling as a victory, anticipating further legal battles over the project’s impact. Continue reading Court ruling complicates carbon pipeline company’s push for land
A majority of the 300 overdose deaths in Iowa in 2022 involved fentanyl. Activists are pushing for the legalization of fentanyl test strips to prevent accidental overdoses. Despite concerns, supporters believe these strips can save lives and provide valuable information about drug supply. Legalization faces resistance due to stigma and fear of enabling drug use. Continue reading As fentanyl ravages Iowa, activists push for the legalization of fentanyl test strips
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
Iowans using wheelchairs through the state Medicaid program will no longer need a prescription and in-person doctor visit for repairs, after advocacy by State Rep. Josh Turek prompted a policy change. These delays caused by the prescription requirement kept some Iowans with disabilities homebound for significant periods. Turek also plans to advocate for faster repair authorization processes in the future. Continue reading State lifts prescription requirement for wheelchair repair through Medicaid
Cheryl Tevis discusses the resurgence of backyard chicken raising amid recent food supply chain disruptions and inflation. She shares personal anecdotes and observations about the trend, highlighting the economic benefits and implications on industrial egg production. The piece also addresses regulatory challenges and public health considerations, while emphasizing the enduring appeal of raising chickens for many Americans. Continue reading Neighbors and city policymakers cry fowl about backyard chickens
Dustin Konrady, a resident of Cherokee, Iowa, is suing two deputies for mistakenly entering and searching his home while attempting to search a neighbor’s house. The deputies are being sued for trespassing, assault, and conducting a warrantless search. The lawsuit alleges that the deputies unlawfully entered the houses and covered their body cameras and microphones during the search. Continue reading Iowa man alleges confused deputies mistakenly searched his home
The Bailing Out Benji organization reported Federal inspectors citing several Iowa breeders for regulatory violations, including inadequate veterinary care and sanitation issues. Violations were also found in 16 other states. Iowa-based breeders were among those cited, with five cited in the second quarter of 2024. Violators include Dunroven Farms, Century Farm Puppies, Coldwater Kennel, New Designs Kennel, and Riverside Kennels. Continue reading Puppy mill update: Five Iowa breeders cited for violations
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