Iowa has become the 6th state in the country to offer state government information through "smart speakers." People may now reference the "State of Iowa" as they ask their Amazon "Alexa" or "Echo" or Google Home smart speaker some common questions, like how to get a birth certificate or … [Read more...]
Iowa House votes for new electric car registration fee
The Iowa House has voted to set a new annual registration fee for electric vehicles. The fee would be $65 next year, then double to $130 in 2022. Republican Representative Ashley Hinson of Marion says electric vehicle owners do not pay much or in some cases any gas taxes that are used to maintain … [Read more...]
Bill addresses dispute over northeast Iowa cell phone tower
A bill in the legislature would override a decision that has blocked construction of a cell phone tower in the northeast corner of Iowa that would become part of a national network supporting first responders. The Allamakee County Board of Adjustment rejected the permit for a proposed tower … [Read more...]
Research finds genetically engineered crops had an environmental benefit
A study finds an early tool of genetic engineering in crops shows benefits beyond its original intent. So-called BT seeds are engineered with genetics from soil bacteria that kill specific insects. Researchers now say BT seeds provide additional environmental benefits. Steve Naranjo, with the … [Read more...]
Computer experts help nonprofits with their websites in ‘hack-a-thon’
A hack-a-thon is now underway, but it doesn't involve breaking into the Pentagon mainframe. The event gathers computer experts from across Iowa and leaders of ten Iowa non-profit groups. Alex Karei, vice president of DSM Hack, says the non-profits all need help, from basic websites to ways to … [Read more...]
Senate panel votes to hike texting while driving fine
A senate committee has unanimously approved more than tripling the fine for people caught handling their smart phone while driving. Drivers gripping their cell to text or talk when they're involved in serious accidents could have their driver's licenses suspended for three months if the bill … [Read more...]
Iowa’s governor open to ban on smart phone use while driving
Governor Kim Reynolds says motorists using a smart phone while they drive are "extremely dangerous" and she’s open to considering legislation to crack down on the behavior. "We want to do everything we can to reduce the number of road fatalities and that seems like a practical thing to do," … [Read more...]
Alliant Energy customers won’t have to pay to keep old electric, gas meters
State regulators say gas and electric customers of Alliant Energy will not have to pay a fee if they decide they don't want to have a new high-tech meter. Iowa Utilities Board spokesman Don Tormey says Alliant proposed replacing old meters with what it calls an advanced metering infrastructure … [Read more...]
$350,000 raised for Computer Science Is Elementary grants
Six Iowa schools in "high-poverty" districts will each get $50,000 state grants this summer for programs to boost the computer skills of elementary students. The application period for these "Computer Science Is Elementary" grants opened yesterday. Governor Kim Reynolds said the IT professionals … [Read more...]
University of Iowa duo goes Scandinavian to learn rocket science
Two University of Iowa students will be flying to far northern Norway for "rocket school" later this month, the only American students taking part in the prestigious program. David Miles, a UI professor of physics and astronomy, says they'll design, build, launch and recover a nine-foot-long, … [Read more...]