Proposal In Iowa House Would Restrict Children From Accessing Sexually Graphic Books At Public Libraries
(Des Moines, IA) — A proposal in the Iowa State House would restrict children from accessing books in public libraries with sexually graphic content. Pastor Emeritus Brad Cranston, Founder of Iowa Baptists for Biblical Values, says he has found several such books on public library shelves in Burlington, available for children to check out. Cranston says the public library proposal is similar to a new Iowa law restricting sexually explicit books in school libraries. An appeals court this week allowed the school restrictions law to go into effect during a legal challenge. So far, there have been no hearings in the Iowa Legislature on the public library bill, House File 2622.
Child Care Assistance Bill Heads to Governor’s Desk
(Des Moines, IA) — Child care workers in Iowa could soon get help paying for child care for their own children under a bill headed to Governor Kim Reynolds’ desk. House File 2514 would allow child care employees who work at least 32 hours a week to qualify for child care assistance, regardless of income. The Iowa Child Care Assistance initiative began in 2023 as a pilot program designed to expand access to child care for workers in the industry. However, the program previously included income restrictions.
Ames Police Asking For Information About Racist, Anti-Semitic Vandalism
(Ames, IA) — The Ames Police Department is looking for information about reports of vandalism over the past few weeks. The department says it’s received several reports of cars spray painted with racial slurs and swastikas. The most recent incident was reported on Monday. Investigators say the vandalism appears to be random and not targeted toward the vehicle owners. Anyone with information is asked to call the Ames Police Department or Crime Stoppers of Central Iowa.
