Amended Bill Restricting Governor’s Powers During Health Emergency Passes Senate Committee
(Iowa) — A bill restricting the governor’s authority during a public health emergency is still alive for this legislative session after an amended version passed an Iowa Senate committee. The amended bill would prohibit the governor from closing houses of worship during a public health emergency, removes the governor’s power to mandate vaccinations during a health crisis, and includes a continuing resolution for the state budget. The proposal will have to pass the full Senate, and go back to the House for approval of changes made to the bill.
Davenport’s ‘Mayor of Gaines Street’ Dies
(Davenport, IA) — The Davenport man known as the “Mayor of Gaines Street” has died. Vernon Carpenter, who for decades waved at passersby from his front porch, passed away March 16th. According to a GoFundMe, Carpenter suffered a stroke a few months ago and had spent time in assisted living. Carpenter was a fixture of the community, telling WQAD-8 in 2016, “It don’t cost nothing for a smile or a wave.”
Muscatine 19-Year-Old Dies in One-Vehicle Crash
(Muscatine Co., IA) — One teen is dead and another has minor injuries after a crash in Muscatine County. Officials say the accident happened Wednesday night near the intersection of Highway 61 and Zachary Avenue. Deputies say the vehicle left the road and hit a concrete island and a stop sign. Nineteen-year-old Cameron Lewis was ejected from the vehicle and died at the scene. Riley Bornsen, also 19, was a passenger in the vehicle and suffered minor injuries.
Middle School Book Club At IA Library Canceled After Selecting A Book With LGBTQ+ Themes
(Bondurant, IA) — A middle school book club at an Iowa library is canceled after students chose a book with LGBTQ themes, sparking a larger community debate about what is appropriate for students and who decides. Several community members argued the book called “This Book Is Gay,” which covers subjects like identity, coming out, relationships, and online safety is not appropriate for middle school aged kids. Others argued that parents can decide for their kids what is appropriate.
