Bill Would Prevent Universities From Hiring Of H-1B Visa Holders
(Des Moines, IA) — A bill to ban universities from hiring people holding H-1B visas is heading to the state House. The bill cleared the House Higher Education Committee last week and would prohibit hiring any worker from a nation designated by the Secretary of Commerce as a foreign adversary. The list includes H-1B visa holders from China, Cuba, Iran, North Korea, Russia, and Venezuela. The latest report from the Iowa Board of Regents shows the state’s public universities currently have 117 employees on H-1B visas from those countries.
Brad Sherman Picks Up Endorsement For Governor
(Des Moines, IA) — Iowa state Representative Judd Lawler is endorsing Republican Brad Sherman for Governor. Sherman is a former state legislator and one of five Republicans seeking the nomination to replace outgoing incumbent Kim Reynolds. Sherman is running against U.S. Rep. Randy Feenstra, former state agency director Adam Steen, state legislator Eddie Andrews, and business owner Zach Lahn. Lawler says Sherman will provide strong, principled leadership. Christian leader Jim Garlow also endorsed Sherman last week.
Scholarship Created For Iowa Lakes Baseball Player Killed In Crash
(Estherville, IA) — Iowa Lakes Community College is creating a scholarship to honor Carter “Tater” Johnson. Johnson was killed in a bus crash on February 11th as his team was heading to Arkansas for a tournament. The Carter “Tater” Johnson Memorial Scholarship will help support future Iowa Lakes baseball students. The school invited the community to contribute donations to the scholarship fund. Johnson was a freshman at the school, known for his infectious energy and joy.
J.D. Scholten Announces Retirement From State Legislature
(Des Moines, IA) — Iowa state House member J.D. Scholten says he will not seek reelection. Scholten has been in politics for nearly a decade, entering the scene by nearly ousting incumbent U.S. Representative Steve King in 2018. Scholten says he believes it’s a good time for new Democrats to take over with competitive races expected for Governor, U.S. Senate, and U.S. House. He tells The Gazette, “I’d rather pass the baton when Democrats have a good chance of saving the seat and expanding.”
