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Local Columns

District tour highlights need for Farm Bill

Since I was first elected, I have traveled to every county in Iowa’s Fourth Congressional District at least twice a year as part of my 36 County Tour. It’s a commitment that I made to my constituents that I would be transparent and accessible, offering meaningful solutions to the problems ...

Bills address variety of health care issues

Last Thursday I managed HF 313, a bill that relates to testimony at an involuntary commitment hearing for substance abuse disorder or serious mental impairment. This bill allows for an advanced registered nurse practitioner or a physician’s assistant to testify at these hearings if they have ...

Continuing a strong health care legacy for our community

This past year, we celebrated 130 years of being our community’s trusted health partner. With stories and insights of our legacy from those who came before us, we are inspired and reminded of the legacy we’re continuing to build in Fort Dodge. As we look to a new year, I am proud to share ...

Education funding passes Iowa Senate

With the first floor debate of the year, the Senate passed our K-12 education funding proposal. Senate File 167 is a $235 million increase for K-12 education in Iowa. When combined with last year’s budgeted amount for education, Iowa’s total amount in state aid for schools will come to ...

EMS as an essential service: Why it’s important for Fort Dodge

One critical component of ensuring the safety and well-being of Fort Dodge citizens is emergency medical services (EMS), which, despite its integral role in public safety, is not currently classified as an essential service. This leaves the community vulnerable and exposes local businesses to ...