A new state law that took effect this week ensures Iowa kids have a right to sell lemonade, cookies, and other types of food and non-alcoholic drinks. Senator Roby Smith of Davenport said a number of states have enacted similar laws. "In 2011, Coralville Police shut down a lemonade stand operated … [Read more...]
After years of work, new Iowa law boosts animal abuse penalties
A new state law that took effect yesterday enhances the penalties for those caught abusing, neglecting or torturing pets. The law makes it easier for prosecutors to pursue these cases. A person convicted of seriously injuring or killing a pet could be sentenced to up to two years in prison. A … [Read more...]
Legislative Council rehashes debate over absentee ballot forms
The Iowa Legislative Council has agreed to let Iowa soldiers who are deployed overseas vote electronically in seven special elections scheduled next Tuesday -- a step required by a new law forcing the secretary of state to get the legislative branch's permission for some election-related … [Read more...]
Governor approves data confirmation change for absentee ballot requests
Governor Kim Reynolds has taken action on all the bills that cleared the 2020 legislative session -- and she approved changes in how county election officials verify the identity of Iowans asking to vote with an absentee ballot. Republican lawmakers say they want to prevent absentee ballot abuse. … [Read more...]
Judge temporarily blocks 24-hour waiting period for abortions
A district court judge has temporarily blocked a new abortion restriction Governor Reynolds approved Monday from going into effect tomorrow. The law that's on hold would require women to attend an additional appointment at least 24 hours before terminating a pregnancy. "I believe in this piece of … [Read more...]
Governor approves tax break for higher blends of biofuels like E15, B20
Governor Kim Reynolds has approved legislation that reduces the state tax on gas with an ethanol blend of 15 percent or higher. It applies the same six-cent per gallon break to 20 percent or higher blends of biodiesel. "It's going to make higher blend biofuels even cheaper at the pump, making it … [Read more...]
Governor approves changes in medical cannabis law, raises tobacco-buying age
Governor Kim Reynolds has taken action on a host of bills, including three that deal with marijuana, alcohol and cigarettes. When bars and restaurants were closed this spring due to the pandemic, Governor Reynolds issued a proclamation allowing the sale of carry-out cocktails in addition to … [Read more...]
Reynolds approves 24-hour waiting period for abortions in Iowa
Governor Kim Reynolds has approved a bill that creates a mandatory 24-hour waiting period for abortions in Iowa, but it may not go into effect as planned this Wednesday. On Monday, a district court judge heard opening arguments in the lawsuit the ACLU and Planned Parenthood filed to block the … [Read more...]
Governor approves reform of Iowa’s professional licensing agencies
Governor Kim Reynolds has signed a bill into law that makes it easier for plumbers, electricians and others who've worked in professional occupations in OTHER states get a license to work in Iowa. "A rigorous professional licensing system to protect the health and safety of our people and our … [Read more...]
Groups sue, trying to block 24-hour waiting period for abortion
Planned Parenthood and the American Civil Liberties Union are filing a lawsuit, seeking to block a 24-hour abortion waiting period from being enforced in Iowa. The legislature introduced and passed the bill in the final hours of the 2020 session. The lawsuit targets the policy itself and the way … [Read more...]