DES MOINES, Iowa (AP) — Catholic leaders from Iowa are welcoming newly elected Pope Francis. Bishop Martin Amos from the Diocese of Davenport says in an online post that he’s sure cardinals considered many factors in their selection of Jorge Mario Bergoglio, who has chosen the papal name Francis. Archbishop Jerome Hanus of Dubuque called the election historic.

DES MOINES, Iowa (AP) — A proposal to give taxpayers the option of paying a flat income tax has the support of the Republican-controlled Iowa House. The legislation approved yesterday in a 53 to 46 party-line vote says taxpayers could pay a 4.5 percent tax on income instead of the current progressive tax. Most deductions and credits wouldn’t be available to those paying the flat tax.

DES MOINES, Iowa (AP) — The Des Moines school board has approved a $300,000 contract for new superintendent Thomas Ahart. He’s being promoted from interim superintendent. The vote was 4-3, with some board members complaining that no other candidates were seriously considered for the job even though the district paid for a national search.

DES MOINES, Iowa (AP) — The Iowa Finance Authority is giving over $70 million in federal tax credits to 12 affordable housing projects in Iowa. The projects will help build and preserve hundreds of affordable homes and apartments in Des Moines, Newton, Waukee and Storm Lake.