Government & Politics

With just 23 calendar days — which means closer to 18 actual legislative work days, since lawmakers rarely work on Fridays — remaining until lawmakers’ expense reimbursements run out, the push to adjournment begins in earnest next week.

Legislation moved forward Thursday that would prevent school personnel accused of misconduct, including sexual abuse, from resigning to avoid investigations and discipline -- despite the sponsor’s concession it wasn’t ready for prime time.

The Johnson County Board of Supervisors approved a $25,000 grant agreement with the Friends of Coralville Lake to be used toward a preliminary action plan and feasibility study to explore solutions to increasing sedimentation that eventually could close the lake to recreation.

Sen. Jason Schultz, a Republican from Schleswig, falsely claimed during a Senate committee meeting Wednesday that the COVID-19 vaccines are not effective or safe.

Iowa’s Republican U.S. Sens. Chuck Grassley and Joni Ernst said Wednesday they support U.S. military aid to Ukraine, though Grassley cautioned against starting World War III.

Concerns about the possible use of eminent domain have increased over the past year as three companies have proposed building underground pipelines across Iowa. At informational meetings around the state since November, many landowners have raised concerns about eminent domain, safety of the pipelines and whether the companies should get tax credits for projects that may make money for the owners but not help Iowans or the environment.

They opposed Senate File 2263, which would end the requirement the Senate confirm a governor’s appointments to about two dozen state boards and commissions. Currently, those appointments must be approved by a two-thirds vote of the 50-member Iowa Senate.

The Eastern Iowa Airport will be eligible for $28.4 million, which will enable the airport to complete the fourth and final phase of its terminal upgrade project.