DES MOINES, IOWA (March 25, 2020) — The number of initial claims filed between Sunday, March 15, and Saturday, March 21 (the first time period that reflects the increased number of claims filed related to COVID-19, including the broader group of individuals eligible for claims due to the virus) was 40,952. The number of continuing weekly unemployment claims as a result of COVID-19 will be available in next Thursday's release.

IOWA CITY, IOWA (March 25, 2020) — Representative Dave Loebsack released the following statement today after the US Department of Health and Human Services announced several grants for community health centers located across Iowa’s Second Congressional District. These grants, which were part of the Coronavirus Supplemental Funding for Health Centers program, are in addition to the funding they already receive from the federal government and meant to directly help combat the COVID-19 illness.

DES MOINES, IOWA (March 25, 2020) — The in-person requirement for notarizing documents is temporarily waived for the duration of the COVID-19 emergency, Governor Kim Reynolds declared earlier this week. The requirements are subject to guidance provided by Iowa Secretary of State of State Paul Pate.

A new law allowing remote notarization in Iowa was scheduled to take effect on July 1, 2020. Gov Reynolds declaration accelerates the timeline.

WASHINGTON DC (March 25, 2020) — A group of Senate Finance Committee Republicans, led by Chairman Charles "Chuck" Grassley (R-IA), are urging the Trump administration to consider utilizing trade policy-measures to reduce the economic strain imposed on Americans by the COVID-19 public health crisis.