DES MOINES, IOWA (April 22, 2020) — Tobacco companies involved in the 1998 landmark settlement have transferred about $49.4 million to the state treasury for this year's payment.

In the last 22 years, Iowa has received more than $1.3 billion in payments under the settlement. The state will continue to receive annual Master Settlement Agreement payments in perpetuity, based on the number of cigarettes sold in the United States. The MSA is the largest settlement in US history.

DES MOINES, IOWA (April 22, 2020) — Ombudsman Kristie Hirschman is calling upon the public to stay on guard against child abuse, citing numbers from the Iowa Department of Human Services (DHS) that abuse allegations have fallen sharply since the COVID-19 pandemic prompted leaders to close schools.

DES MOINES, IOWA (April 22, 2020) — The absentee voting period for mailed ballots in Iowa’s June primary begins this Thursday, April 23. Secretary of State Paul Pate and county auditors across the state are encouraging Iowans to vote from home during the COVID-19 pandemic to reduce the risk of spreading the virus.

ROCK ISLAND, ILLINOIS (April 22, 2020) — On the eve of the 50th anniversary of Earth Day, Augustana College President Steven Bahls is announcing early plans to place solar panels on four campus buildings.

Once fully-installed, solar power will provide about 8% of the college’s annual electric energy-needs.

Solar units will be added to the rooftops of four buildings: