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Iowa News headlines: Thu., May 23rd 2013

News

May 23rd, 2013 by Ric Hanson

Here is the latest Iowa news from The Associated Press

DES MOINES, Iowa (AP) — The Iowa Senate adjourned the 2013 legislative session late last night, but the House is set to return today for more votes. Lawmakers seemed to be moving to conclusion yesterday after reaching deals to cut property taxes, revise education policy and provide health care for low-income residents.

DES MOINES, Iowa (AP) — The Iowa Senate has approved a deal to accept federal funding to provide health care coverage to low-income residents. The deal was included in the $1.7 billion state Health and Human Services budget, which includes funding for the departments of Public Health and Human Services. Senate lawmakers voted 26-24 in favor of the budget last night. The health agreement would cover an estimated 150,000 Iowans.

DES MOINES, Iowa (AP) — The Iowa Senate has approved a compromise plan to cut commercial property taxes in the state. The plan was approved in a 43-6 vote yesterday. The deal limits the amount that residential property assessments can grow. It also includes small income tax credits and raises the state earned income tax credit for low-income workers.

DES MOINES, Iowa (AP) — As the state Legislature was nearing approval of significant changes to Iowa’s public school system, the Iowa Department of Education director accepted a job as superintendent of a Colorado school district. Eagle County School District in Colorado announced yesterday that Iowa Education Department Director Jason Glass accepted the job. He starts July 1st.