How can state government be more efficient?

October 26, 2009

Do you have ideas for how state agencies and departments can operate more efficiently and effectively? The Legislature’s State Government Reorganization Commission is seeking your suggestions.

Right strategies will help our state grow again

There’s no doubt that Iowa and the rest of the country are facing tough times. Since the Legislature approved a balanced budget last spring, state revenues have plunged dramatically. Recent revenue estimates came in $415 million below March projections.

Paid internships for UI students

October 21, 2009

The trip from Iowa City to Des Moines is a long way to drive for a volunteer internship at the Iowa Senate. The University of Iowa’s Des Moines Center is the answer to that problem. They now offers UI students the opportunity to earn 12 credit hours and a $4800 stipend when they intern in [...]

DMR Guest opinion: Today’s cuts are painful, but Iowa’s long-term outlook is healthy

October 19, 2009

Senate Majority Leader Mike Gronstal penned a guest column for the October 16th Des Moines Register.

Find your flu vaccine

Local public health departments have received the first shipment of the H1N1 flu vaccine, which is available to certain priority groups. The Iowa Department of Public Health has created an interactive map to help you find your vaccination site.

Your input can help improve Iowa’s parks

The Iowa Parks Foundation wants to know how Iowans use the many parks throughout the state. You can provide your input through an online survey.

Two new resources to help students succeed

October 16, 2009

The Iowa College Student Aid Commission recently launched a new online resource to help students transition from school to the workplace and to provide tools for adults seeking education and employment opportunities.

For students transferring from a community college to a 4-year institution, another new web site can make figuring out which classes and credits will transfer a whole lot easier.

Legislative Budget Cuts

October 15, 2009

On Wednesday, the Iowa Legislature announced plans to enact a 10% budget reduction beginning immediately. When combined with the reductions made in June, the Legislature will spend $6 million less than the year before, from $37.9 million to $31.9 million.

Ensuring healthy pets for Iowans

A legislative study committee examining the care of companion animals sold commercially met recently to determine if further state regulation is needed in the industry.

Senate intern threatened by rogue planet at statehouse

October 14, 2009

Save the world. Be an intern: http://iowasenatenews.com/internships.