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Iowa early News Headlines: Wed., Jan. 20th 2013

News

January 30th, 2013 by Ric Hanson

Here is the latest Iowa news from The Associated Press

DES MOINES, Iowa (AP) — A push to expand Medicaide in Iowa is being made by a pair of Democratic legislators. Sen. Jack Hatch and Rep. Lisa Heddens introduced legislation yesterday that would broaden eligibility requirements for the state program, which covers low-income people, including children and the disabled. President Barack Obama’s health care overhaul provides funding to states that do the expansion. If expanded, as many as 150,000 people could be added to Iowa’s Medicaid rolls, mostly low-income childless adults.

DES MOINES, Iowa (AP) — The Iowa Economic Development Authority is seeking an extra $65 million in state tax credits for this fiscal year from legislators. The state puts a $120 million limit on tax breaks the agency can offer business. Director Debi Durham has told lawmakers that the authority needs $185 million for the fiscal year ending June 30. The authority also asked for a $35 million budget increase for international marketing and a new jobs program.

DES MOINES, Iowa (AP) — A Republican lawmaker wants to make it easier for veterans to purchase certain types of guns in Iowa. Rep. Dwayne Alons has proposed legislation that would allow veterans to buy pistols and revolvers without getting a permit from a county sheriff. Currently, anyone purchasing those types of firearms must first get a permit.

DES MOINES, Iowa (AP) — Legislation requiring photo identification in order to vote has been presented by Senate Republicans. Iowa law currently doesn’t require identification at the polls. For several years, Republicans have argued that could lead to voter fraud, though Democrats say there is little evidence of such problems. The bill presented yesterday is modeled after similar legislation introduced by Republican Secretary of State Matt Schultz.