Here is the latest Iowa news from The Associated Press

NEWTON, Iowa (AP) — A California man accused of posing as an actor from the “Twilight” movie series has pleaded not guilty to charges of sexual abuse. Thirty-three-year-old David LaVera entered the plea against several charges including third-degree sexual abuse and two counts of sexual exploitation of a minor. LaVera is accused of using his smartphone to record a 12-year-old taking a shower and using the bathroom. He is also accused of recording a 14-year-old using the bathroom.

ATLANTIC, Iowa (AP) — Court documents say a western Iowa woman accused of lying about her daughter’s cancer diagnosis inserted a feeding tube into the girl’s nose and stomach. Thirty-year-old Leatha Slauson, of Atlantic, did not have medical training to properly insert the medical equipment. Police say Slauson told her community that her 5-year-old daughter was diagnosed with terminal cancer last year. An investigation found the child is not suffering from any disease.

DES MOINES, Iowa (AP) — Three Iowa farm trade groups have formed an organization called the Iowa Agriculture Water Alliance to push farmers harder on the implementation of farm practices designed to clean Iowa’s water. The group’s goal is to get more farmers to participate in the state’s Nutrient Reduction Strategy, a voluntary program initiated Gov. Terry Branstad’s administration.

DES MOINES, Iowa (AP) — Thousands of Iowa employers will pay less in unemployment taxes next year. Governor Terry Branstad says the average tax rate will drop to 1.2 percent from 1.6 percent. A state senate panel meets this week to review the management of the state’s workforce agency.