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Iowa early News Headlines: Tue., March 5th 2013

News

March 5th, 2013 by Ric Hanson

Here is the latest Iowa news from The Associated Press

DES MOINES, Iowa (AP) — Gov. Terry Branstad says his health care proposal for some low-income Iowans will not provide the same benefits as an expanded Medicaid. But, the governor has called his approach more fiscally responsible. Branstad wants to get federal approval to set up Healthy Iowa instead of pursing a Medicaid expansion permitted under President Obama’s health care overhaul. He says his approach will better shield Iowa from federal fiscal changes.

IOWA CITY, Iowa (AP) — Voters in Linn County will decide today whether to support a plan to build a casino in downtown Cedar Rapids. If approved, casino supporters would seek to persuade the Iowa Racing and Gaming Commission to approve the first new casino license since 2010.

DES MOINES, Iowa (AP) — A proposal to legalize marijuana for medical use likely is dead for this legislative session. A Senate subcommittee approved the bill yesterday. But, panel chairman, Iowa City Sen. Joe Bolkcom, says the proposal likely won’t go further because there isn’t support for it in a full committee. A House subcommittee has rejected a similar bill.

DES MOINES, Iowa (AP) — Snow and freezing drizzle from a winter storm could affect the morning commute for Iowa drivers. The state Department of Transportation says moderate to heavy snowfall from a winter storm will hit northeast and east central Iowa into this morning. The National Weather Service says between 6 to 10 inches of snow is possible.