Tag: news

Government, Healthcare4 Comments

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

Gary Dickson

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

Government, HealthcareLeave a comment

State lifts prescription requirement for wheelchair repair through Medicaid

Gary Dickson

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

Economy, GovernmentLeave a comment

Tax discussion highlights tension between residential and agricultural property owners

Gary Dickson

The South Dakota legislative committee is addressing the rising property tax burden on residential homeowners compared to agricultural landowners. Factors like the COVID-19 pandemic and shifting property valuations have contributed to this disparity. The committee must consider options for state intervention, as they continue to meet throughout the summer. Parallel taxation discussions are also underway in the state. Continue reading Tax discussion highlights tension between residential and agricultural property owners

Crime, Justice, Siouxland2 Comments

Iowa man alleges confused deputies mistakenly searched his home

Gary Dickson

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

Agriculture, EnvironmentLeave a comment

Puppy mill update: Five Iowa breeders cited for violations

Gary Dickson

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

Iowa, TransportationLeave a comment

Three-vehicle accident near Kingsley sends two to hospital in serious condition

Gary Dickson

A three-vehicle accident involving an SUV, a pickup, and a semi-truck occurred in Woodbury County. The SUV failed to yield at a stop sign, resulting in a collision. The SUV driver and passenger sustained serious injuries and were taken to the hospital, while no other injuries were reported. Emergency personnel responded to the scene. Continue reading Three-vehicle accident near Kingsley sends two to hospital in serious condition

Environment, GovernmentLeave a comment

McCook Lake victims still ‘in the dark,’ waiting for FEMA help nearly seven weeks after flood

Gary Dickson

Victims of the June 23 flood in McCook Lake feel abandoned by government officials, with uncertainty about federal aid. The flood destroyed 40 homes and caused infrastructure damage. South Dakota’s disaster declaration process delayed FEMA assistance. State officials defended the assessment process and contractors, while some officials expressed confidence in aid approval. Continue reading McCook Lake victims still ‘in the dark,’ waiting for FEMA help nearly seven weeks after flood

Crime, Sioux City, SiouxlandLeave a comment

Work release inmate on the lam from Sioux City’s RTF

Gary Dickson

Myron Allen Dumarce, a 20-year-old man convicted of various crimes, failed to return to the Sioux City Residential Treatment Facility. The facility aims to aid high-risk individuals in re-entry and rehabilitation. Dumarce’s history includes eluding the police. Authorities are seeking information on his whereabouts. Continue reading Work release inmate on the lam from Sioux City’s RTF

EducationLeave a comment

New program gives high school students a jump-start toward a teaching degree

Gary Dickson

The South Dakota Board of Regents launched the Gateway to Teacher Education program to address the growing need for educators in the state. High school juniors and seniors can earn a certificate to use toward education degrees at public universities, with the state covering part of the cost. The initiative aims to cultivate future educators and address workforce needs. Continue reading New program gives high school students a jump-start toward a teaching degree