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The Government may be spying on your phone — Congress must act

Columnists

Our smart phones reveal a lot about us. In order to function, they connect with communications networks and geolocation services, creating detailed maps of our daily lives. If you knew how to read them, you’d know someone’s favorite coffee shop, the person they’re dating, where they go to school or church, and more. Would you want the government to have this information at its fingertips? Most of us wouldn’t — but that’s what’s happening. FBI Director Kash Patel recently admitted that the agency is buying up our personal information — including movement and location ...

Celebrating Community College Month

Columnists

For 60 years, Iowa’s community colleges have quietly shaped the trajectory of our state, opening doors for students, strengthening local economies, and anchoring communities in times of both challenge and opportunity. As president of Iowa Valley Community College District, I have the privilege of seeing that impact every day and of reflecting on how far we have come. Iowa’s community college system was established in 1965, when the state reorganized a network of local junior colleges and vocational schools into a coordinated system designed to serve all Iowans. The vision was clear ...

Another war for oil? This is why we need renewable energy

Columnists

The war on Iran has caused the biggest oil supply disruption in history, as oil tanker traffic through the Strait of Hormuz falters. Taken together with this year’s invasion of Venezuela, home to the world’s largest proven oil reserves, and the Trump administration’s subsequent cutting off of oil sales to Cuba — potentially its next military target — we are witnessing how the race for fossil fuel resources is compromising global peace and stability. Oil prices have swung wildly, and impacts may be felt in the fertilizer and food sectors too. According to Andy Rowell, an ...

A lifeline for Main Street: How new federal guarantees can save American manufacturing jobs

Columnists

Walk through any industrial park in our region today, and you are struck by dedication. These local manufacturers — the bedrock of our economies — are more than just businesses; they support our communities. They represent nearly 98% of American manufacturing operations, providing jobs and stability right here at home. However, even the most dedicated local producers face a persistent hurdle: securing the right capital to navigate today’s economic landscape and achieve their next stage of growth. The proof is in the numbers: as wages have jumped by over 5%, our operating ...

GOP property tax plan may fall into one-size-fits-all trap

Columnists

For as long as I can remember, I’ve listened to conservative politicians complain about one-size-fits-all laws and regulations. Usually, it’s in the context of the federal government. Often, the complainers are at the state level who say Washington, D.C., shouldn’t infringe upon the so-called “laboratories of democracy.” Now, Republicans in the Iowa Statehouse may violate their own rule. They may pass a big property tax cut this year with a very bad feature: A 2% cap on local revenues for cities and counties, excluding new growth and debt service. Local governments say ...

The Barker Bulletin

Columnists

Week 12: Rural Healthcare As we approach the end of session, our focus will continue to narrow. The House and Senate continue to have conversations surrounding the details of property tax reform and I expect floor action on a bill in the coming weeks. This week it was a pleasure to visit with disability advocates at the Capitol, including many who helped me pass the visually accessibly pharmacy label bill this session. I also was able to speak to the Iowa Health Initiative about our fight against cancer. Rural Health Transformation Plan This week, the Iowa House passed House File 2743 ...