Editorial: DNA collection bill overreaches core safeguards
The Gazette criticizes a state Senate bill expanding mandatory DNA sampling to aggravated misdemeanors like assault theft and repeat DUI. The editorial argues it risks privacy, strains lab capacity, and could affect juveniles, urging judge discretion in specific plea contexts.
DNA sampling bill faces changes amid Iowa debate
Iowa lawmakers debate expanding DNA sampling to aggravated misdemeanor convictions. The House passed a bill last March. the Senate offered exemptions for gambling waste and ag offenses, plus juveniles and deferred judgments. If approved, the measure goes to Governor Branstad ahead of potential policy shifts.
MENTIONED IN THIS ARTICLE
Iowa
Senate
House
Terry Branstad
Calls for Cedar Rapids to switch to a responsible city government
A letter argues Cedar Rapids should return to a commission form to improve accountability amid accusations of lavish downtown spending and silenced council meetings. It urges tax relief and structural reform to avoid bankruptcy.
MENTIONED IN THIS ARTICLE
Cedar Rapids
U.S
Ronald Boyer
Prude or prudent Plan B debate sparks policy clash
Column argues against lifting Plan B age limits for teens, contending 15 year olds need parental oversight despite safety claims. Author contrasts government and parental authority, noting medical use and abortion concerns while urging policies that involve families.
MENTIONED IN THIS ARTICLE
Justice Department
Planned Parenthood
Cecile Richards
Obama
Editorial Contact Details for Sourcemedia Update
The message provides a mailing address Box 511 Cedar Rapids IA 52406 for Sourcemedia editorial inquiries. It lists a phone contact 319 398 8262 and an email address jeff tecklenburg sourcemedia net for questions.
MENTIONED IN THIS ARTICLE
Editorial
Sourcemedia.net
Cedar Rapids
Jeff.tecklenburg
Iowa Supreme Court expands birth certificate rights for same sex couple
The Iowa Supreme Court ruled 6-0 that the Department of Public Health must list both spouses on a daughter's birth certificate, citing equal protection under the Iowa Constitution. The decision builds on the 2009 Varnum ruling, with two new justices concurring and one not participating.
MENTIONED IN THIS ARTICLE
Iowa Supreme Court
Iowa Department of Public Health
Supreme Court
Iowa
Varnum
David Wiggins
House
Terry Branstad
Edward Mansfield
Thomas Waterman
Mansfield
Bruce Zager
Also Mentioned on This Page
the Gazette
Legis. Iowa
Thegazette.com
Keith Roach
Rense
James Bovinet
Marion
NRA
Jem
Peravior
Kathleen Parker
Kathleenparker
Washpost
Dorman
Todd Dorman
Dorman.todd
Sourcemedia