Here is the latest Iowa news from The Associated Press…

DES MOINES, Iowa (AP) — A state panel has approved legislation giving prosecutors more options for helping minors mired in prostitution and increasing penalties for pimps who used children. The House Judiciary Committee voted 20-0 yesterday to approve the bill, which now goes to the House floor. Penalties would also increase for pimping involving a minor from a class “D” felony to a class “C” felony.

IOWA CITY, Iowa (AP) — An Iowa City elementary school has lifted a lockdown caused by a suspect on the loose. Mark Twain Elementary School went on lockdown yesterday afternoon as authorities searched for a suspect wanted by county and state officials. The Press-Citizen reports that Iowa City Community School District says authorities later gave permission for the students to be dismissed. Authorities are still looking for the suspect.

BEVINGTON, Iowa (AP) — A Cedar Rapids man faces several charges in connection to a brief standoff with authorities on a freeway. The Des Moines Register reports 19-year-old Albert Austin the Third faces multiple charges related to the Tuesday afternoon incident, including operating while intoxicated, reckless driving and attempting to elude. The incident temporarily rerouted traffic for several miles.

DUBUQUE, Iowa (AP) — A Dubuque woman has been accused of hitting her boyfriend and using a golf club to repeatedly strike a car. The Telegraph Herald reports 21-year-old Cynthia Pendleton was arrested Tuesday afternoon. She faces charges of assault while displaying, child endangerment and third-degree criminal mischief.