04 Nov 2015

Gov. Branstad and Lt. Gov. Reynolds highlight Iowa events that celebrate National Apprenticeship Week

By Office of the Governor of the State of Iowa

National Apprenticeship Week coincides with a proclamation that

Gov. Branstad signed on October 12, 2015 and aligns with Future Ready Iowa

 

(DES MOINES) - Gov. Terry E. Branstad and Lt. Gov. Reynolds today highlighted events going on around the state that coincide with National Apprenticeship Week and as part of ongoing conversation to close the skills gap to create a Future Ready Iowa.  On Oct. 12th, Gov. Branstad signed a proclamation designating November 2-8, 2015 as Registered Apprenticeship Appreciation and Awareness Week in Iowa.

 

Iowa is a leader in promoting apprenticeships. In the spring of 2014, the governor signed the Iowa Apprenticeship and Job Training Act into law which expanded access to apprenticeship training programs in Iowa by tripling the funding for apprenticeships and reforming and streamlining the program.  Lt. Gov. Reynolds recently held a press conference touting the growth of apprenticeships in Iowa.

 

Access to apprenticeship training in Iowa was further expanded thanks to the Iowa Construction Trades Apprenticeship Job Driven National Emergency Grant that includes both construction and non-construction occupations. The original grant in the amount of $6.175 million was provided for apprenticeship program expansion in six of the state's 15 Workforce Investment Act (WIA)/Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) Regions within the construction trades.  This has now been expanded to include all 15 WIA/WIOA Regions and to include construction trades, non-construction trades and businesses not previously certified. The latter will allow Iowa employers that utilize one or more of the 1,266 federally approved occupations for apprenticeships nationwide to consider the apprenticeship model.

 

"As Iowa continues to grow its economy, our businesses will continue to need qualified and skilled employees," said Governor Branstad. "Apprenticeship programs are a great way for employees to earn while they learn - while also getting businesses the access to talent they need."

 

Registered apprenticeship is an employer-driven model combining on-the-job learning with related classroom instruction to increase the apprentice's skill level and wages.  The Iowa Apprenticeship Program (15B) is administered by IEDA in coordination with the United States Department of Labor (DOL), Office of Apprenticeship (OA).

 

Iowa is one of the fastest growing states for Registered Apprenticeships. In fiscal year 2013-2014, Iowa saw a more than 20 percent increase. One of the newest programs to be launched is through the Technology Association of Iowa (TAI). This week, TAI will launch the Application Developer Registered Apprenticeship Program to train active professionals in programming logic and databases, testing framework, proficiency in creating server side interfaces, knowledge of development methodologies, and understanding of technical writing in a variety of programming languages.  Inquiries and information on the apprenticeship program through TAI should be sent to apprenticeship@technologyiowa.org or visit www.technologyiowa.org.

 

Lt. Governor Kim Reynolds added, "As we travel around Iowa, the governor and I constantly hear from employers who are in need of a skilled workforce?especially in manufacturing, information technology, STEM and health-related fields.  Our focus on apprenticeships in Iowa is a key avenue to fill the skills gap for employers and empower Iowans with rewarding careers.  Growing our talent pipeline is essential for the 21st century global economy and a Future Ready Iowa."

 

The success of Iowa's apprenticeship programs is due to the engagement of partners - businesses, community colleges, state agencies, union stakeholders, trade associations and others - who are actively involved in expanding apprenticeships in Iowa. Those partners are embracing National Apprenticeship Week with events and activities planned around the state throughout the week and month.

 

Governor Branstad and Lt. Governor Reynolds will visit four Registered Apprenticeship Sponsors throughout the week, including Dalton Plumbing and Heating, Young Plumbing and Heating, Independence Plumbing and Dubuque Screw.

 

Representatives for the Iowa Building and Construction Trades group will celebrate National Apprenticeship Week by addressing the Iowa School Counselor Association to share how apprenticeship programs can build a pathway to career success.

 

"Educating high school counselors on just how students can benefit from exploring an apprenticeship opportunity in Iowa is an important part of the conversation," said Jason Shanks, training director for Plumbers and Steamfitters, Local 33. "Continuing education can take many forms, and Registered Apprenticeship programs are a proven way to prepare for a long and prosperous career path."

 

ABC of Iowa, a non-profit construction trade association, will hold its 2015 ABC of Iowa Apprenticeship and Training Trust Craft Championships on November 20 to highlight the work of apprentices across the state. During the event, apprentices compete in six events including Residential/Commercial Electrical, Commercial/Industrial Electrical, HVAC, Insulation, Plumbing and Sheet Metal. Winners of each advance to represent ABC of Iowa at the ABC National Craft Championships in Ft. Lauderdale, FL next March.

 

"Drawing attention to the professional work of our apprentices is the goal of the Craft Championships that we'll hold later this month," said Greg Spenner, president and CEO of the Associated Builders and Contractors of Iowa. "It is so rewarding to see the high-level work these apprentices are doing for companies around Iowa."

 

Several other events are scheduled throughout the week around the state - a sampling is below. For a complete listing, go to www.doleta.gov/oa/naw.

 

November 4, 2015

 

Event:                   IowaWORKS North Iowa and North Iowa Corridor - Employer Information Meeting

 

Location:              9 N Federal, Mason City, IA 50401

Time:                     3:30 - 4:30 p.m.

Details:                 IowaWORKS North Iowa and North Iowa Corridor are hosting an information meeting for employers interested in establishing a registered apprenticeship at their business. Rich Madden, U.S. Department of Labor, Office of Apprenticeship, is presenting.

 

Event:                   Hawkeye Community College Apprenticeship Open House and Luncheon

 

Location:              Hawkeye Community College, 1501 E Orange Rd, Waterloo, Iowa, 50701

Time:                     11:00 a.m.

Details:                 Open House and Luncheon Location

Point of Contact: Jerry Orr, jerry.orr@hawkeyecollege.edu, 319-296-2329 Ext. 3010

 

Event:                   IowaWORKS, Northwest Apprenticeship Fair

 

Location:              IowaWORKS Northwest, 217, Spencer, Iowa, 51301

Time:                     12:00 p.m.

Details:                 Point of Contact: Erin Pingel, erin.pingel@iwd.iowa.gov, 712-262-7662 ext. 132

 

Event:                   IowaWORKS, Iowa Valley "An Apprenticeship Conversation"

 

Location:              IowaWORKS Iowa Valley, 3405 S Center St., Marshalltown, Iowa, 50158

Time:                     2:30 p.m.

Details:                 IowaWORKS Iowa Valley is hosting a conversation event to increase awareness of local apprenticeship opportunities.

Point of Contact: Beth Severidt, lauren.severidt@iwd.iowa.gov, 641-844-6966

 

Event:                   Western Iowa Tech Community College Apprenticeship Open House and Luncheon

 

Location:              Western Iowa Tech Community College, 4647 Stone Avenue, Sioux City, Iowa, 51106

Time:                     11:30 a.m.

Details:                  Point of Contact: Dar Raye Hunwardsen, darraye.hunwardsen@witcc.edu, 712-274-6400

 

 

November 5, 2015

 

Event:                   IowaWORKS, Central Iowa Apprenticeship Lunch and Learn

 

Location:              IowaWORKS, 430 E. Grand Ave., Des Moines, Iowa, 50309

Time:                     11:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.

Details:                 IowaWORKS is hosting an Apprenticeship Lunch and Learn for employers interested in Registered Apprenticeship and the National Emergency grant that has been awarded in Iowa.

Point of Contact: Jennifer Reha, jennifer.reha@iwd.iowa.gov, 515-281-9620

 

Event:                   TMC Transportation Open House and Webinar

 

Location:              TMC Transportation Training Center, 5929 NE 22nd St, Des Moines, Iowa, 50313

Time:                     2:00 p.m.

Details:                 TMC Transportation will host an onsite and virtual Open House to celebrate National Apprenticeship Week.

Point of Contact: Cheryl Freauff, cheryl.freauff@tmctrans.com, 515-974-3447

 

Event:                   Governor Terry Branstad and Lt. Governor Kim Reynolds visit the following businesses during National Apprenticeship Week

U.S. Department of Labor, Office of Apprenticeship

 

Location:              Dalton Plumbing and Heating, 5536 Nordic Drive, Cedar Falls, IA 50613

Time:                     10:30 a.m.

Details:                 Point of Contact: David Krejchi, dkrejchi@daltonphc.com, 319-266-3513

 

Location:              Young Plumbing and Heating, 750 Hackett Road, Waterloo, IA 50701

Time:                     1:00 p.m.

Details:                 Point of Contact: Mark Tink, markt@youngphc.com, 319-234-4411

 

Location:              Independence Plumbing, 509 20th Ave SW, Independence, IA 50644

Time:                     3:00 p.m.

Details:                 Point of Contact: Richard Curry, iphci@indytel.com, 319-334-7008

 

 

November 6, 2015

 

Event:                   Governor Terry Branstad and Lt. Governor Kim Reynolds visit the following business during National Apprenticeship Week

U.S. Department of Labor, Office of Apprenticeship

 

Location:              Dubuque Screw Products, Inc., 6500 Chavenelle Road, Dubuque IA 52004

Time:                     9:45 a.m.

Details:                 Point of Contact: Matt Scherr, matt@dbqscrewproducts.com, 563-583-2770

 

 

November 4-6, 2015

 

Event:                   Iowa Department of Corrections Event Name: National Apprenticeship Week

 

Location:              Anamosa State Penitentiary, 406 N High Street, Anamosa, Iowa, 50319

Time:                     7:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m.

Details:                 Clarinda Correctional Facility, Iowa Correctional Institution for Women, Newton Correctional Facility, Rockwell City Correctional Facility and Anamosa State Penitentiary will promote their apprenticeship programs and Apprenticeship Signing Days

Point of Contact: Tim Diesburg, tim.diesburg@iowa.gov, 319-462-3504 Ext. 2297

 

 

All week during regular business hours

 

Event:                   Missouri Valley Area Joint Apprenticeship and Training Committee (AJATC) Open House and Job Fair

 

Details:                 Missouri Valley AJATC will host visits and presentations during job fairs at its Iowa office, in addition to issuing press releases to honor National Apprenticeship Week.

 

Event:                   Northeast Iowa Community College National Apprenticeship Week Event

 

Location:              NICC Peosta, 8342 NICC Drive, Peosta, Iowa, 52068

Details:                 Point of Contact: Randy Schofield, schofieldr@nicc.edu, 563-557-8271 Ext. 115

 

 

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02 Nov 2015

WASTE COMMISSION FACILITIES CLOSED VETERANS DAY

By Brandy Welvaert

DAVENPORT, IA?Waste Commission of Scott County facilities will be closed Wednesday, Nov. 11 in observance of Veterans Day. Normal hours of operation will resume on Thursday, Nov. 12. Facilities closed include the following:

  • Scott Area Recycling Center, 5640 Carey Ave., Davenport

  • Scott Area Landfill, 11555 110th Ave., Davenport

  • Household Hazardous Material Facility, 11555 110th Ave., Davenport

  • Electronic Demanufacturing Facility, 1048 East 59th St., Davenport

Waste Commission of Scott County is an intergovernmental agency whose mission is to provide environmentally sound and economically feasible solid waste management for Scott County. For more information about the Commission, please call (563) 381-1300 or visit www.wastecom.com.

# # #
02 Nov 2015

$43 million gas station in Afghanistan, Defense Department obfuscation over soaring cost

By Grassley Press

The Special Inspector General for Afghanistan Reconstruction (SIGAR) has prepared a report on a compressed natural gas filling station in Afghanistan that cost $43 million, many times more than it should have.   A similar station in Pakistan cost no more than $500,000 to construct.  SIGAR said the Defense Department is ill-prepared to explain the enormous cost over-run.  Sen. Chuck Grassley of Iowa, a long-time watcher of wasteful spending, made the following comment on the report.

"This is shocking in multiple ways. The cost of an unnecessary gas station in Afghanistan skyrocketed to a ridiculous height.  Now, the Department of Defense is blocking access to documents and personnel that would shed light on how the money was spent.  The inspector general's auditors have had access only to non-Defense Department documents.  In those documents, they couldn't find any audit trail to show how the original estimated cost escalated to the final $43 million cost.  Under the law, government employees are not authorized to spend tax dollars without proper documentation like contracts, invoices, receiving reports and payment vouchers.   If those documents don't exist, that's a huge problem.  The lack of accountability and transparency is disgraceful.    The Defense Department needs to come clean, drop the obfuscation, and hold people responsible for a colossal waste of tax dollars."
30 Oct 2015

Iowa Supreme Court Opinions October 30, 2015

By Iowa Judicial Branch
Notice: The opinions posted on this site are slip opinions only. Under the Rules of Appellate Procedure a party has a limited number of days to request a rehearing after the filing of an opinion. Also, all slip opinions are subject to modification or correction by the court. Therefore, opinions on this site are not to be considered the final decisions of the court. The official published opinions of the Iowa Supreme Court are those published in the North Western Reporter published by West Group.

Opinions released before April 2006 and available in the archives are posted in Word format. Opinions released after April 2006 are posted to the website in PDF (Portable Document Format).   Note: To open a PDF you must have the free Acrobat Reader installed. PDF format preserves the original appearance of a document without requiring you to possess the software that created that document. For more information about PDF read: Using the Adobe Reader.

For your convenience, the Judicial Branch offers a free e-mail notification service for Supreme Court opinions, Court of Appeals opinions, press releases and orders. To subscribe, click here.

NOTE: Copies of these opinions may be obtained from the Clerk of the Supreme Court, Judicial Branch Building, 1111 East Court Avenue, Des Moines, IA 50319, for a fee of fifty cents per page.

No. 13-1937

STATE OF IOWA vs. ERIC WILLIAM QUERREY

No. 13-2046

DEREK CROW vs. EDWIN E. SIMPSON, Individually and d/b/a SIMPSON TRUCKING AND EXCAVATING

No. 15-0673

IOWA SUPREME COURT ATTORNEY DISCIPLINARY BOARD vs. HEATHER MARIE KINGERY
30 Oct 2015

News from Senator Grassley's Office Oct 29, 2015

By Grassley Press

Leahy & Grassley Press Treasury, IRS on the Use of Cell Phone Tracking Technology

WASHINGTON - Senate Judiciary Committee Chairman Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa) and Ranking Member Patrick Leahy (D-Vt.) are once again pressing a top cabinet official about a government agency's use of cell-site simulator technology, which can sweep up the cell phone signals of innocent Americans.

Following news reports that the Internal Revenue Service is using cell-site simulators, or "Stingrays," the senators sent a letter to Treasury Secretary Jacob Lew on Thursday seeking information about the department's legal justification for using the technology and what privacy controls are in place.  The senators also asked about which other agencies within the department use the technology.

"We were surprised to learn that IRS investigators may be using these devices," the senators wrote.  "While the devices can be useful tools for identifying the location of a suspect's cell phone or identifying an unknown cell phone, we have previously expressed concerns about the privacy implications of these devices, as well as the inconsistent practices and policies across the federal, state and local agencies that employ them.  The devices indiscriminately gather information about the cell phones of innocent people who are simply in the vicinity of the device."

Grassley and Leahy have long raised concerns regarding the use of cell-site simulators, and their oversight has led to the Department of Justice and the Department of Homeland Security implementing new rules requiring agents to obtain a search warrant in many cases before employing the technology.

A copy of the October 29 letter to Lew can be found online.

Klobuchar, Grassley Call on Federal Trade Commission to Protect Consumers from Anticompetitive Pay-For-Delay Patent Settlements

Senators urged the FTC to aggressively challenge any anticompetitive settlements where brand-name drug companies pay generic drug companies to delay marketing lower cost generic drugs

 

WASHINGTON, DC - Senate Judiciary Committee Chairman Chuck Grassley and Senator Amy Klobuchar today called on the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) to protect consumers from anticompetitive pay-for-delay patent settlements. In a letter to FTC Chairwoman Edith Ramirez, the senators urged the FTC to aggressively challenge any anticompetitive settlements where brand-name drug companies pay generic drug companies to delay marketing lower cost generic drugs. Klobuchar and Grassley have introduced the Preserve Access to Affordable Generics Act to help put an end to these pay-off agreements, bring more affordable generic equivalents on the market, and ensure consumers have access to the cost-saving generic drugs they need.

 

"We are writing to encourage the Federal Trade Commission to maintain its vigilance in protecting American consumers from anticompetitive pay-for-delay patent settlements, which keep more affordable generic equivalents off the market," the senators wrote. "This issue is extremely important to consumers; competitive drug prices are necessary for affordable health care. We commend the FTC for its work in this area but encourage you to aggressively challenge any pharmaceutical patent settlement that is anticompetitive."

Klobuchar and Grassley have long supported efforts to combat anti-consumer pay-for-delay settlements. The senators are the lead sponsors of the Preserve Access to Affordable Generics Act, which would crack down on anti-competitive pay-offs and make sure consumers have access to cost-saving generic drugs they need. The bipartisan legislation would make it illegal for brand-name drug manufacturers to use anti-competitive pay-off agreements to keep more affordable generic equivalents off the market. Klobuchar and Grassley introduced similar legislation in 2010 following a resurgence of patent settlement agreements. In July 2013, the Judiciary Committee Subcommittee on Antitrust, Competition Policy, and Consumer Rights held a hearing to scrutinize pay-for-delay deals.

Full text of the letter is below:

Dear Chairwoman Ramirez:

We are writing to encourage the Federal Trade Commission to maintain its vigilance in protecting American consumers from anticompetitive pay-for-delay patent settlements, which keep more affordable generic equivalents off the market. The FTC should be proud of its work in this area.

Unfortunately, neither the Supreme Court's decision in Federal Trade Commission v. Actavis nor the earlier Third Circuit decision In re K-Dur Antitrust Litigation appears to have stopped this practice. You reported 29 settlements in 2013 that potentially involved pay-for-delay provisions, impacting $4.3 billion in U.S. sales. Combined with deals from prior years, dozens of agreements may be delaying access to generic drugs, which can be as much as 90 percent cheaper than their brand-name counterparts. As you have documented, agreements with payments to the generic company delay its entry into the market an average of nearly 17 months longer than agreements without payments.

However, in the two years since Federal Trade Commission v. Actavis, the FTC has challenged only one pay-for-delay pharmaceutical patent settlement. Although we appreciate the important work the FTC has done in filing amicus briefs on these issues, enforcing the law in this area is critical to protecting consumers.

We understand the challenges that the FTC still faces in stopping this practice, which is why we have introduced the Preserve Access to Affordable Generics Act. This bill would require pharmaceutical companies to justify any pay-off and impose penalties on companies that break the law. Given the substantial incentives for companies to enter these pay-for-delay agreements, the Preserve Access to Affordable Generics Act would provide the appropriate legal standard and deterrence to protect competition and American consumers.

This issue is extremely important to consumers; competitive drug prices are necessary for affordable health care. Again we commend the FTC for its work in this area but encourage you to aggressively challenge any pharmaceutical patent settlement that is anticompetitive.

Thank you for your attention to this matter.

Sincerely,

-30-
30 Oct 2015

Proposed Amendments to Iowa Court Rules 10/29/2015

By Iowa Judicial Branch

Orders

 

This section of the site contains orders of statewide interest recently issued by the Iowa Supreme Court. Orders will be posted in this section for one year from the date they are first posted.

 

Links on this page go to files that may be unusable if you do not have the proper programs installed on your computer. Visit the Site Tools and Accessibility page for any plug-ins or programs your may need.

 
Request for Public Comment on a Proposed Fee for Admission Pro Hac Vice

Order (100 kb)


Chapter 31 , Admission to the Bar (159 kb)


Periodic Pro Hac Vice Fee (313 kb)



In the Matter of Adoption of Iowa Court Rules Implementing the Uniform Bar Examination (October 15, 2015)

Order (502 kb)


Chapter 31 (113 kb)



In the Matter of Amendments to Chapter 46 of the Iowa Court (October 15, 2015)

Order (262 kb)


Chapter 46 (96 kb)



In the Matter of Adopting Updates to the Iowa Rules of Professional Conduct (October 15, 2015)

Order (212 kb)


Chapter 32 (321 kb)



Request for Public Comment on Proposed New Rule (September 15, 2015)

Criminal Procedure 2.18(15) on Alternate Jurors

Order (758 kb)


Proposed New Rule 2.18(15) (157 kb)


Memo from Criminal Procedure Advisory Committee (163 kb)



Request for Public Comment on Proposed Amendments to ICR Governing Appellate Processes

Order (728 kb)


Court Rules Governing Appellate Processes (188 kb)



Request for Public Comment on Proposed Amendments to Iowa Court Rules (September 4, 2015)

Chapters 34, 35, and 36 in Division III (Professional Regulation)

Order (101 kb)


Chapter 34 (217 kb)


Chapter 35 (306 kb)


Chapter 36 (260 kb)



In the Matter of Appointments to Serve on the Guardianship and Conservatorship Reform Task Force (August 28, 2015)

Supervisory Order (36 kb)


Appendix (47 kb)



Request for Public Comment on Proposed Amendments to Iowa Court Rules on Professional Regulation (Division III) (August 21, 2015)

Order (96 kb)


Proposed OPR Omnibus Rule Changes (138 kb)


Discussion of OPR Omnibus Changes (84 kb)



Request for Public Comment Regarding Proposed Updates to the Iowa Rules of Professional Conduct (August 6, 2015)

Order (82 kb)


Chapter 32, Rules of Professional Conduct (339 kb)



Adoption of the Uniform Bar Examination and Request for Public Comment on Proposed Rules Governing the Bar Admissions Process (August 4, 2015)

Order (288 kb)


Chapter 31 , Admission to the Bar (115 kb)


Board of Law Examiners' Report (341 kb)



Request for Public Comment Regarding Proposed Amendments to Div III of ICR for Reciprocal Certification of Shorthand Court Reporters (July 28, 2015)

Order (557 kb)


Proposed Rules (100 kb)


Office of Professional Regulation memo (458 kb)



No. 13-1072 (May 5, 2015)

State of Iowa vs. Kendall Lee Ware

Order (29 kb)



Appointments of Members To Serve on Task Force (March 31, 2015)

In the Matter of the Appointments of Members to Serve on the Iowa Family Law Case Processing Reform Task Force

Supervisory Order (70 kb)



Request for Public Comment Regarding Proposed Amendments to Iowa Court Rule 35.14 (March 11, 2015)

Reinstatement of License After Revocation

Order (80 kb)


Rule 35.14 (105 kb)



Request for Public Comment Regarding Proposed Amendments to Iowa Court Rule 31.16 (March 11, 2015)

Registration of foreign house counsel

Order (73 kb)


Rule 31.16 Registration of house counsel (99 kb)



In the Matter of Proposed Access to Justice Fee Recommendations (February 3, 2015)

Order (395 kb)



In the Matter of Establishment of and Appointments to the Guardianship and Conservatorship Reform Task Force (January 14, 2015)

Order (140 kb)



In the Matter of Establishment of and Appointments to the Iowa Family Law Case Processing Reform Task Force (January 14, 2015)

Order (165 kb)



Request for Public Comment Regarding Proposed Amendments (October 24, 2014)

to Division III of the Iowa Court Rules--Certification of Shorthand Reporters

Order (70 kb)


Proposed Rules (80 kb)



Request for Public Comment Regarding Access to Justice Recommendations (October 1, 2014)

Proposal to create a pro hac vice fee and a new lawyer fee to support legal services.

Order (1091 kb)


ISBA Report (576 kb)


Letter from Iowa Legal Aid (3155 kb)


Staff Report (680 kb)


Public Comments on Access to Justice (January 6, 2014) (26460 kb)


Order In the Matter of Proposed Access to Justice Fee Recommendations (February 3, 2015) (395 kb)



Request for public comment regarding the Basic Skills Course requirement for newly admitted Iowa attorneys. (September 11, 2014)

Order (75 kb)


Public Comment on the Basic Skills Course requirement (1854 kb)



In the Matter of Proposed Amendments to Iowa's Bar Admission Process (September 5, 2014)

Order (95 kb)



Request for Public Comment Regarding Proposed Amendments to the Rules Governing Court Interpreters (August 22, 2014)

Order (813 kb)


Chapter 47 (348 kb)


Chapter 48 (98 kb)



In the Matter of the Schedule for the Public Hearing (August 5, 2014)

Order Adding Speaker to Public Hearing (23 kb)



In the Matter of the Schedule for the Public Hearing Regarding Proposed Amendments to Iowa's Bar Admission Process (August 1, 2014)

Order (74 kb)



No. 12-0649 Bertrand v. Mullin and the Iowa Democratic Party (May 30, 2014)

Correction Order (2545 kb)



Request for Public Comment Regarding Proposed Amendments to Iowa's Bar Admission Process (May 14, 2014)

Order (119 kb)


ISBA Recommendations and Appendix (1419 kb)


Court Staff Report on Diploma Privilege (168 kb)


Public Comment on Diploma Privilege Recommendations (July 16, 2014) (5188 kb)



No. 12-2104 Blobaum Enterprises v. Auto-Owners Insurance et al (February 14, 2014)

Order (202 kb)



Request for Public Comment Regarding Proposed Amendments to Division III of the Iowa Court Rules (January 7, 2014)

Order (124 kb)


Proposed Chapter 41 amendments (395 kb)



Request for Public Comment Regarding Proposed Amendments to the Student Practice Rule (January 7, 2014)

Order (100 kb)


Proposed amendments, Rule 31.15 (181 kb)



In the Matter of Extending the Deadline for Public Comment on Proposed Amendments to Iowa Discovery Rules and Expedited Civil Action Rule (Dec. 20, 2013)

Order (31 kb)



In the Matter of Temporary Early Closures of Clerk of Iowa Supreme Court (December 5, 2013)

Order (363 kb)



In the Matter of Amendments to Division III of the Court Rules Regarding the Client Security Trust Fund (November 26, 2013)

Order (160 kb)


Office of Professional Regulation Memorandum (118 kb)


Chapter 39 and 40 (141 kb)



Request for public comment regarding proposed amendments to Iowa discovery rules and a proposed expedited civil action rule (November 1, 2013)

Order (1614 kb)


Proposed Discovery Amendments (410 kb)


Proposed Expedited Civil Action Rule (200 kb)



Request for comments regarding proposed amendments to the Rules for Expanded Media Coverage (October 28, 2013)

Chapter 25 of the Iowa Court Rules

Order (112 kb)


Chapter 25 (767 kb)


Final Report (130 kb)


Public Comments on Proposed Amendments to the Rules for Expanded Media Coverage (542 kb)



In the Matter of the New Rule of Juvenile Procedure (October 16, 2013)

Juvenile Procedure 8.36

Order (705 kb)


Rule 8.36 (256 kb)


Standards of Practice (298 kb)



No. 11-0492 (August 28, 2013)

State of Iowa vs. Jason Jon Means

Order (63 kb)



Request for Public Comment Regarding Proposed Amendments to Division III of the Iowa Court Rules (August 5, 2013)

Order (72 kb)


Chapter 39 (130 kb)


Chapter 40 (22 kb)


Office of Professional Regulation memo (823 kb)



Video of Public Hearing (July 9, 2013)

A public hearing on the proposed new rule of Juvenile Procedure 8.36 was held July 9, 2013, with oral presentations from individuals expressing different viewpoints on the proposed rule.
Video, Part 1
Video, Part 2





Schedule for Public Hearing on Proposed New Rule of Juvenile Procedure 8.36 (June 20, 2013)

Public hearing will begin at 9 a.m., Tuesday, July 9, 2013

Order (64 kb)



No. 11-0553 (June 7, 2013)

St. John's Full Gospel Baptist Church vs. Tax 207 and Polk County Treasurer

Order (34 kb)



In the Matter of the Appointment of an Independent Special Counsel (May 10, 2013)

Order (209 kb)



No. 11-2019 (May 10, 2013)

Residents of Elsie Mason Manor & Ligutti Tower, Katherine Daniel, et al., vs. First Baptist Housing Foundation and American Baptist Homes of the Midwest

Order (64 kb)



Request for Public Comment Regarding Proposed Amendments to the Rules Governing Court Interpreters (March 18, 2013)

Order (765 kb)


Chapter 47 (307 kb)


Chapter 48 (224 kb)



Setting Public Hearing and Reopening Comment Period on Proposed New Rule of Juvenile Procedure 8.36 (March 18, 2013)

Order (724 kb)


Proposed New Rule 8.36 (95 kb)


Iowa Standards of Practice for Attorneys Representing Parents in Juvenile Court (195 kb)


Public Comments on Proposed New Rule of Juvenile Procedure 8.36 (June 3, 2013) (477 kb)



In the Matter of Appointment of Judges to the Iowa Business Specialty Court Pilot Project (March 4, 2013)

Order (46 kb)



In the Matter of Court Forms for Adult and Minor Child Petitions for Change of Name (February 14, 2013)

Name change forms pdf

Supervisory order and name change forms (681 kb)



Request for Public Comment Regarding Recommendations of the Iowa Supreme Court 2012 Child Support Guidelines Review Committee (January 25, 2013

Order (89 kb)


Filed with the clerk of the Iowa Supreme Court office on January 25, 2013

Final Report of Review Committee (3592 kb)



In the Matter of Establishment of the Iowa Business Specialty Court Pilot Project (December 21, 2012)

Supervisory Order and Memorandum of Operation (345 kb)



In the Matter of Amendments to Iowa Court Rules Regulating the Practice of Law (December 10, 2012)

The Iowa Supreme Court Chief Justice has signed an order amending various rules of Division III (Professional Regulation) of the Iowa Court Rules. With two exceptions noted in the order, these amendments are effective immediately. Also accompanying the order is a summary of the amendments.

Order (27 kb)


Amendments to Iowa Court Rules Regulating the Practice of Law (254 kb)


Comments to Amendments to Iowa Court Rules Regulating the Practice of Law (177 kb)



In the Matter of Appointments to the Committee on Expanded Media Coverage (December 7, 2012)

Order (380 kb)



Corrected Expanded Media Coverage Committee Order

Nunc Pro Tunc (47 kb)



Request for Public Comment Regarding Proposed Emeritus Pro Bono Practice Rule (December 6, 2012).

Order (309 kb)



Request for Public Comment Regarding Proposed rules governing the filing of electronic documents in the Iowa Appellate Courts (December 6, 2012).

Order (546 kb)



Request for public comment regarding proposed collection activities (October 25, 2012)

Order (84 kb)


Proposed new Chapter 26 (288 kb)


Public Comments on Proposed Rules for Collection Activities of the Iowa Courts (2951 kb)


Committee Response to Public Comments (31 kb)



In the Matter of the Electronic Document Management System and Standard eForms of Pleadings for Small Claims Actions (October 25, 2012)

Supervisory Order (72 kb)


http://www.iowacourts.gov/eFiling/Overview/index.asp

Small Claims eForms (591 kb)



In the Matter of Appointments to the Advisory Committee Concerning Certain Civil Justice Reform Task Force Recommendations (October 10, 2012)

Order (78 kb)



Request for public comment regarding a proposed new rule of juvenile procedure 8.36 (August 30, 2012)

Order (140 kb)


New Rule of Juvenile Procedure 8.36 (228 kb)


Iowa Standards of Practice for Attorneys Representing Parents in Juvenile Court (1818 kb)


Public Comments on Proposed New Rule of Juvenile Procedure 8.36 (Oct. 31, 2012) (29813 kb)


Additional comment (November 1, 2012) (792 kb)



Request for public comment regarding amendments to Professional Regulation of the Iowa Court Rules (August 27, 2012)

Order (420 kb)


Proposed amendments to Professional Regulation (142 kb)



Request for public comment regarding amendments to Chapters 6 and 21 of the Iowa Court Rules (August 27, 2012)

Order (496 kb)


Proposed amendments to Chapters 6 and 21 (107 kb)



Request for Comments to Proposed New Rule of Civil Procedure 1.1702 (August 3, 2012)

Order (407 kb)


Proposed New Rule (88 kb)



In the Matter of Rules for Involuntary Commitments or Treatment of Persons with Substance-Related Disorders (July 5, 2012)

Supervisory Order and Chapter 13 (516 kb)



In the Matter of Mileage Reimbursement (June 29, 2012)

Supervisory Order (32 kb)



In the Matter of EDMS and Standard Forms of Pleadings for Small Claims (June 29, 2012)

Supervisory Order (991 kb)



In the Matter of Forms for Court Orders Issued in Small Claims Court (June 28, 2012)

Supervisory Order and Forms for Court Orders (3515 kb)



In the Matter of Appointments to the 2012 Iowa Child Support Guidelines Review Committee (June 11, 2012)

Nunc Pro Tunc (103 kb)



In the Matter of Appointments to the 2012 Iowa Child Support Guidelines Review Committee (June 11, 2012)

Order (533 kb)



In the Matter of the Notice on Court-Generated Documents in Compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (May 1, 2012)

Supervisory Order (56 kb)



In the Matter of Revision of Interim Rules 16.306(5) and (6) Relating to Signatures in the Electronic Document Management System (April 24, 2012)

Supervisory Order (82 kb)


Revised 16.306(5) and (6) (36 kb)



Request for comments to proposed amendments to lawyer advertising rules (April 20, 2012)

Order (386 kb)


Proposed amendments (12844 kb)



Request for comments to proposed amendments to Rule 31.16 Registration of House Counsel (March 21, 2012)

Order (77 kb)


Proposed New Rule (304 kb)



In the Matter of Interim Rules to Govern the use of the Electronic Document Management System (March 1, 2012)

The Iowa Supreme Court amends the interim rules of Chapter 16 of the Iowa Court Rules governing EDMS

Order (77 kb)


Chapter 16 interim rules (349 kb)


Summary (43 kb)


General Commentary (114 kb)



Request for comments to proposed amendments to Rule of Appellate Procedure (February 10, 2012)

Order (244 kb)


Proposed New Rule (186 kb)



Request for comments to proposed amendments to Rules of Civil Procedure (December 2, 2011)

Order (575 kb)


Proposed New Rule (479 kb)



Request for comments to proposed amendments to Rules of Juvenile Procedures (November 23, 2011)

Order (103 kb)


Juvenile amendments (11 kb)



Request for comments to proposed amendments to rules regulating the practice of law (November 17, 2011)

Order (429 kb)


Summary (96 kb)


Proposed amendments (200 kb)



In the Matter of Request for Public Comment Regarding Proposed Small Claims Pleadings Forms (October 7, 2011)

Order (550 kb)


Small Claims Forms (944 kb)



In the Matter of Formation of the Small Claims Forms Advisory Committee (May 18, 2011)

Order (619 kb)



In the Matter of the Supreme Court Committee to Study Lawyer Advertising Rules (April 15, 2011)

Order (466 kb)



In the Matter of Rescission of Standard Forms of Pleadings for Small Claims Actions (April 6, 2011)

Supervisory Order (206 kb)



In the Matter of Temporary Rules Governing the Electronic Document Management System and Use of Standard Forms of Pleadings for Small Claims Actions (April 4, 2011)

Temporary rules governing EDMS to exempt electronic filers in Small Claims actions until further notice of this court

Supervisory Order (364 kb)



In the Matter of Standard Forms of Pleadings for Small Claims Actions (April 1, 2011)

The March 28, 2011, order contained typographical errors in the numbering sequence of the new and amended Small Claims forms compared to the prior forms being replaced. The forms themselves were correctly numbered.

Amended Order (427 kb)



In the Matter of Standard Forms of Pleadings for Small Claims Actions (March 28, 2011)

The Court rescinds Chapter 3 of the Iowa Court Rules, Standard Forms of Pleadings for Small Claims Actions, in its entirety. The court approves and adopts the revised Chapter 3 of the Iowa Court Rules attached to this Order.
Effective April 4, 2011

Order (6666 kb)


Standard Forms (pdf) (774 kb)



In the Matter of Changes to the Business Hours of the Jefferson and Louisa County Clerk of Court Offices (March 9, 2011)

Effective immediately

Nunc Pro Tunc (170 kb)



In the Matter of Changes to the Business Hours of the Jefferson and Louisa County Clerk of Court Offices (March 9, 2011)

Effective immediately.

Supervisory Order (181 kb)



In the Matter of Amendments to Iowa Court Rules Chapter 4; Form 4.11 (February 2, 2011)

Effective immediately.

Order and Form 4.11 (895 kb)



In the Matter of Amendments to Iowa Court Rules Chapter 4: Forms 4.1, 4.2, 4.11, and 4.15 (December 27, 2010)

Effective immediately

Supervisory Order (3402 kb)



In the Matter of the Appointment of the EMC Media Coordinator for Region 3

Effective December 17, 2010.

Order (192 kb)



Proposed Adoption of 2005 Model Standards of Conduct for Mediators (December 7, 2010)

Deadline for comments is March 7, 2011

Order (2271 kb)


Model Standards of Conduct for Mediators (166 kb)


Chapter 11 Study Group (2195 kb)



In the Matter of the Retention of a Private Court Reporter in a Civil Case: Amendment to January 6, 2010 Order (November 24, 2010)

Effective immediately

Supervisory Order (835 kb)



In the Matter of Temporary Rules to Govern the Use of the Electronic Document Management System Plymouth County and Story County (November 4, 2010)

Supervisory Order (538 kb)


Chapter 16 - Rules Pertaining to the Use of the Electronic Document Management System (12070 kb)


Protected Information Disclosure (424 kb)


Small Claims Original Notice and Petition (3124 kb)


Notice of Transcript Redaction (445 kb)


General Commentary on Electronic Filing Rules (118 kb)



In the Matter of Changes to the Business Hours of the Chickasaw and Howard County Clerk of Court Offices (October 19, 2010)

Effective October 25, 2010

Supervisory Order (207 kb)



In the Matter of Changes to the Business Hours of the Greene County Clerk of Court Office (September 29, 2010)

Effective October 12, 2010

Supervisory Order (185 kb)



In the Matter of Changes to the Business Hours of the Boone County Clerk of Court Office (September 29, 2010)

Effective October 5, 2010

Supervisory Order (177 kb)



In the Matter of Changes to the Business Hours of the Adams, Ringgold and Taylor County Clerk of Court offices (September 29, 2010)

Effective October 4, 2010

Supervisory Order (189 kb)



In the Matter of the Judicial Council Advisory Committee on Fine Collection Procedures, Practices and Rules (September 24, 2010)

Effective immediately

Order (928 kb)



In the Matter of the Public Hours of the Office of the Clerk of the Appellate Courts (September 15, 2010)

Effective September 20, 2010

Supervisory Order (465 kb)



In the Matter of Changes to the Business Hours of the Jones County Clerk of Court Office (August 18, 2010)

Effective August 30, 2010

Supervisory Order (167 kb)



In the Matter of the Appointment of Members to Serve on the Civil Justice Reform Task Force (August 6, 2010)

Supervisory Order (106 kb)



In the Matter of Changes to the Business Hours of the Worth County Clerk of Court Office (August 4, 2010)

Effective September 10, 2010

Supervisory Order (181 kb)



In the Matter of Expanded Media Coverage of the Courts (July 21, 2010)

The supreme court has reorganized the jurisdiction of media coordinators for Jackson County.
Effective August 1, 2010

Order (171 kb)



In the Matter of Interim Procedures Governing the Collection of Court Fines and Fees (July 2, 2010)

Upon recommendation of the Judicial Council, the supreme court adopts interim provisions that will govern installment payment plans and other fine collection activities of the judicial branch until the adoption of permanent rules.
Effective July 12, 2010

Supervisory Order (1250 kb)



In the Matter of Changes to the Business Hours of the Floyd County Clerk of Court Office (May 13, 2010)

Effective May 20, 2010

Supervisory Order (174 kb)



In the Matter of Changes to the Business Hours of the Davis County Clerk of Court Office (May 4, 2010)

Effective May 10, 2010

Supervisory Order (176 kb)



In the Matter of Adoption of EDMS Rules for Pilot Project in Plymouth County (April 21, 2010)

Effective immediately

Supervisory Order (581 kb)


Chapter 16 - Rules Pertaining to the Use of the Electronic Document Management System (12017 kb)


Protected Information Disclosure (520 kb)


Small Claims Original Notice and Petition (2292 kb)


General Commentary on Electronic Filing Rules (2274 kb)



In the Matter of Changes to the Business Hours of the Guthrie County Clerk of Court Office (April 13, 2010)

Effective immediately

Supervisory Order (173 kb)



In the Matter of the Business Hours of the Fremont County Clerk of Court Office (April 6, 2010)

Effective April 5, 2010

Supervisory Order (167 kb)



In the Matter of Appointment to the Task Force for Civil Justice Reform (March 23, 2010)

Effective immediately

Order (123 kb)



In the Matter of Changes to the Business Hours of Clerk of Court Offices (March 19, 2010)

Fremont county
Effective April 5, 2010

Supervisory Order (186 kb)



In the Matter of Changes to the Business Hours of Clerk of Court Offices (February 11, 2010)

Jefferson county
effective February 12, 2010

Supervisory Order (180 kb)



In the Matter of Prioritization of Cases and Duties (February 4, 2010)

Amendment to Order of December 1, 2009
Effective immediately

Supervisory Order (323 kb)



In the Matter of Changes to the Business Hours of Clerk of Court Offices (January 28, 2010)

Fifth District
effective February 1, 2010

Supervisory Order (252 kb)



In the Matter of Changes to the Business Hours of Clerk of Court Offices (January 26, 2010)

First, Second and Sixth districts
effective February 1, 2010

Supervisory Order (286 kb)



Proposed Revised Iowa Code of Judicial Conduct (January 19, 2010)

Chapter 51
Deadline for comments is March 19, 2010.

Order and Proposed Code (581 kb)



In the Matter of Private Retention of Court Reporters in Civil Cases (January 6, 2010)

Supervisory order (500 kb)



In the Matter of Appointments to the Task Force for Civil Justice Reform (December 18, 2009)

Order (655 kb)



In the Matter of Court Closure Days and Public Hours of Clerk of Court Offices (December 2, 2009)

Supervisory Order (63 kb)



In the Matter of Prioritization of Cases and Duties (December 1, 2009)

Supervisory Order (1318 kb)



In the Matter of the Public Hours of Clerk of Court Offices (November 17, 2009)

Supervisory Order (2646 kb)



In the Matter of Actions Taken to Reduce Judicial Branch Operating Expenses (November 12, 2009)

Supervisory Order (1443 kb)



In The Matter of Court Closure and Unpaid Leave Days (November 10, 2009)

Supervisory Order (497 kb)



In the Matter of Actions Taken to Reduce Judicial Branch Operating Expenses for Fiscal Year 2010 (June 25, 2009)

Supervisory Order (162 kb)



In the Matter of Court Closure Days and Reduced Public Hours (May 29, 2009)

Supervisory Order (288 kb)



In the Matter of Appointments to the Digital Audio Recording Technology Committee of the Judicial Council (May 7, 2009)

Order (380 kb)



In the Matter of Court Closure and Unpaid Leave Days: May 8 (May 5, 2009)

Supervisory Order (452 kb)



In the Matter of Mileage Reimbursement (March 31, 2009)

Supervisory Order (315 kb)



Actions Concerning Judicial Operations (March 13, 2009)

Supervisory Order (228 kb)



Action Taken to Reduce Operating Expenses (February 27, 2009)

Supervisory Order (186 kb)



Hearing on Proposed Rules (February 24, 2009)

A hearing is scheduled on Thursday, March 5, 2009, regarding minutes of evidence.

Order Setting Hearing Schedule (Feb. 24, 2009) (480 kb)


Order Setting Amended Hearing Schedule (March 2, 2009) (477 kb)


Order (Feb. 13, 2009) (749 kb)



Actions Taken to Reduce Judicial Branch Operating Expenses (February 2, 2009)

Supervisory Order (783 kb)



Proposed Amendments to the Rules of Criminal Procedure (December 2, 2008)

Information about witnesses
Deadline for comments is January 2, 2009

Chapter 2, Rule 2.4 and 2.5 (589 kb)



Proposed Amendments to Iowa Court Rules (November 12, 2008)

Licensing and Practice of Foreign Legal Consultants
Deadline for comments is December 12, 2008

Chapter 31, Rule 31.14 and 31.18 (5008 kb)



In the Matter of Iowa Rule of Civil Procedure 1.422 (September 23, 2008)

Supervisory Order (150 kb)



Proposed Amendments to the Rules of Criminal Procedure (June 23, 2008)

Information about witnesses
Deadline for comments is July 23, 2008

Chapter 2, Rule 2.4 and 2.5 (96 kb)


Order (355 kb)



Final Report of the Child Support Guidelines Review Committee

Final Report of the Child Support Guidelines Review Committee (378 kb)


Proposed Amendments to Chapter 9 (348 kb)


Rule 9.27, Forms 1 and 2 (418 kb)



Revisions to Electronic Document Management System Proposed Rules (June 10, 2008)

Public Notice (47 kb)


General commentary (71 kb)


Chapter 16--Pertaining to the use of EDMS (258 kb)



Proposed Amendments to Rules of Appellate Procedure and Rules of Civil Procedure Concerning Certiorari (June 6, 2008)

Deadline for comments is August 6, 2008

Order (81 kb)


Proposed Amendments to Rules of Appellate Procedure (851 kb)


Summary of Key Changes (238 kb)


Proposed Amendments to Rules of Civil Procedure (113 kb)



Appointments to the Supreme Court Limited Jurisdiction Task Force (January 14, 2008)

Appointment Order (205 kb)


Resolution in Support of the Pew Commission (September 10, 2007) (86 kb)



Filing by facsimile transmission (August 6, 2007)

Order granting filing by facsimile transmission of certain documents in chapters 125 and 229 commitment proceedings
Effective immediately

Order (66 kb)



Uniform Bond Schedule (August 2, 2007)

Order amending uniform bond schedule

Order and bond schedule (97 kb)



Instructions to Compensation Commissioners from the Chief Justice (January 12, 2007)

Instructions (208 kb)
30 Oct 2015

Loebsack Statement on Paul Ryan Being Named Speaker of the House

By Joe Hand

Washington, D.C. - Congressman Dave Loebsack released the following statement today after Paul Ryan was elected the next Speaker of the House.

"I want to congratulate Paul Ryan on his selection as the Speaker of the House. It is my hope that Speaker Ryan will be the leader of the entire House, not just the Republican Party. While we may not always see eye to eye, I look forward to working with Speaker Ryan to move our nation forward."

###
30 Oct 2015

New video shows crucial need for lights while biking at night — especially with coming time change

By Rick Martin
See before-and-after examples of the difference bike lights make in boosting visibility for drivers

Chicago, Ill; October 29, 2015 ? When the end of Daylight Savings Time snatches a full hour of our daylight this weekend, many Chicagoland residents who commute to work on their bikes will be riding home in the dark. This time change signals a perfect time to ensure you have functional front and rear lights on your bike.

As spelled out in a lively new video created by the Active Transportation Alliance ? a local advocacy group that works to improve conditions for biking, walking and transit in Chicagoland ? proper illumination while biking is a crucial safety measure that makes you visible to people driving cars.

The video features a dramatic series of before-and-after examples showing the difference bike lights make in heightening your visibility for drivers. And it's not just darkness working against bicyclists at night ? but also factors like driver distraction, weather conditions, dirty windshields and visual clutter on the roadway that can contribute to people biking being invisible to drivers.

Using bike lights at night is not only an essential safety measure, it's also the law. Chicago and Illinois laws require a front light and a rear reflector when riding at night (And most Chicagoland suburban communities also have similar laws on the books). In addition to following these legal requirements, Active Trans recommends adding a red flashing light at the rear of the bike.

You can also boost your visibility with reflective clothing and reflectors attached to your bike. Wearing brighter colors can help, too.

LED bike lights are cheap, bright and long lasting. But beware, batteries die and lights sometimes break. Some people equip their bikes with multiple front and multiple rear lights, or always pack extra batteries, so that if one light goes out unexpectedly they don't have to finish their ride in the dark.

The video recommends buying LED lights that are at least 100 lumens in brightness, and using a new generation of lights that are USB rechargeable.

See the video.

For more safety tips on biking, check out our Everyday Biking Guide.

# # #

30 Oct 2015

Smiddy Urges Observation of Safety Tips this Halloween

By Paul Ferrero
PORT BYRON, Ill. -State Rep. Mike Smiddy, D-Hillsdale, is urging residents to practice safe Halloween habits this year.
"Halloween is a great time to dress up and celebrate with friends, family and neighbors, but too often people are hurt during the festivities," Smiddy said. "You can help your family have a fun and safe Halloween by refreshing your memory about a few simple safety tips."
Smiddy offered the following safety advice for families this Halloween:
  • Ensure younger children are chaperoned during trick-or-treating and older children should go in groups.
  • Plan a route and an agreed- upon time for returning home.
  • Only visit well-lit houses and wait outside for candy.
  • Prepare for wet weather and take additional precautions for participants and drivers traveling during the celebration.
  • Ensure children wait to eat candy until after returning home and adults have inspected candy and wrappers. Any unwrapped or loosely wrapped candy should be discarded.
  • Trick-or-treat only during designated hours.
"With Halloween falling on a Saturday this year, participation may be increased, and with so many people on the streets, it's important that motorists be especially careful to avoid collisions with pedestrians," Smiddy said. "As a father of two young boys, I know Halloween can be a great time, but for the celebration to be successful, it's important everyone contribute to a safe environment."
To learn about designated trick-or-treat hours, please contact your local police department's non-emergency number. For more safety tips this Halloween, please visit the Center for Disease Control's website at http://www.cdc.gov/family/halloween/. If you or someone you know may have consumed something harmful, call the American Association of Poison Control Center's hotline at 1-800-222-1222. For more information, call Smiddy's full-time constituent service office at 309-848-9098.
30 Oct 2015

1,600 Christians Will Gather in Des Moines, Iowa for National Religious Liberties Conference, Nov. 6-7

By Blair Watkinson
DES MOINES, Iowa, Oct. 29, 2015 /Christian Newswire/ -- Over 1,600 Christians around the country are gathering for a National Religious Liberties Conference, Freedom 2015, November 6th-7th at the Iowa Events Center. The conference speakers and attendees will celebrate the freedoms God has bestowed on our country, encourage those who have been persecuted or those who may experience persecution in the future and develop strategies for defending religious liberties for Christian business owners, teachers, evangelists, chaplains, employees and churches. The conference is sponsored by over a dozen evangelical organizations including American Family Association, Liberty Institute, Samaritan Ministries and Generations.

This past year has seen increasing persecution for Christians standing on the principles of faith around the world in Iran, Pakistan, Syria, China, Ireland, Canada, and at home in states such as Kentucky, Colorado, Oregon, Iowa and Arkansas. Kevin Swanson, Director of Generations and Freedom 2015 organizer, said "Over the past few years, we've seen a marked erosion of the religious liberties that were the bedrock of the founding of our country. We're inviting Christians to be equipped for the uncertain future while celebrating the liberties God has provided our nation over the centuries."

Speakers will include :
  • Presidential Candidates Senator Ted Cruz, Governor Mike Huckabee and Governor Bobby Jindal
  • Persecuted Christians David and Jason Benham, Naghmeh Abedini, Richard & Betty Odgaard, SMSgt Phillip Monk, Aaron & Melissa Klein and Randy Pfaff
  • Religious freedom advocates Kelly Schackelford, Rafael Cruz, James Lansberry, Brigadier General Douglas Lee, USA (ret), Bob Vander Plaats, Bradley Pierce and Chuck Hurley
The conference will address religious liberty in the military, medical care, parenting, education and the workplace. Conference speakers will also highlight the history of religious liberties and religious persecution.

The clear ruling in Burwell v. Hobby Lobby, Obergefell v. Hodges and other cases is that religious organizations and individuals have the right to hold to their own convictions in both private life and the public square. Despite these rulings, Christian business owners, employees and churches remain under attack while living according to their convictions and rights guaranteed by the Constitution. "We want to encourage Christians in their homes, churches and workplaces by helping them understand the freedoms that are theirs by the grace of God and by the law of the land," explained Swanson.

Conference registration and live streaming of Freedom 2015 is available at www.Freedom2015.org. Contact Blair Watkinson for more information: 720-778-1517 or media@freedom2015.org.

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