Capitol Briefs 12-10

Capitol Briefs

Highway incidents lead workplace deaths

Highway incidents were most common cause of workplace deaths in Iowa in 2008, according to a preliminary report by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.

Highway incidents accounted for 29 deaths, or 31 percent of the 93 total deaths in Iowa in 2008, making it one of the highest totals in recent years.

Nationally, highway incidents accounted for 23 percent of all workplace deaths.

Other common causes of deaths in Iowa include being struck by an object or equipment, non-highway transportation incidents, or falling to a lower level.

Men accounted 97 percent of work-related fatalities in Iowa, while workers 25-54 accounted for 55 percent of workplace deaths.

The 93 deaths was the highest annual rate state since 1992, when the state recorded 110 workplace related deaths.

Final workplace death totals for 2008 in Iowa and the nation are expected to be released in April.

Candidate new resident of district

One of the GOP's candidates for Congress has recently moved into the Iowa district in which he is running, a spokesman said.

Former Iowa State University wrestling coach Jim Gibbons moved into an apartment in Des Moines from a home in rural area near Perry, said Nick Ryan, who responded on behalf of the campaign.

Gibbons is one of three Republicans seeking the chance to challenge U.S. Rep. Leonard Boswell, a Democrat in Iowa's 3rd District.

Ryan said Gibbons moved to Des Moines a month ago to establish residency in the 3rd District and that the family is “considering options for a family home.”

Gibbons is married and has three children, according to his campaign Web site.

The other Republicans running for the seat are Brad Zaun of Urbandale and Dave Funk of Runnells.