Public News Service

Since President Donald Trump began U.S. military attacks on Iran on Feb. 28, Iowans have seen average gasoline prices jump from $2.635 for a gallon of regular unleaded gasoline to $4.536, according to AAA data. For Iowa farmers, the war has also driven up the cost of the diesel fuel and fertilizer they rely on for food production.

Schmeeka Simpson of Omaha works as a patient navigator for the American Civil Liberties Union and an administrative assistant at Nebraskans for Peace, plus picks up shifts at a Dunkin’ shop.

Iowa sustainable energy advocates and environmental officials warn that federal cuts to the Sustainable Rivers Project could threaten aquatic species and reduce the program’s economic benefits.

Iowa faith leaders are pushing back on anti-immigrant sentiment in the state, highlighting a bill that would have empowered state police to deport undocumented immigrants.

Eighty-three environmental groups have signed a letter to the Department of Health and Human Services and Environmental Protection Agency demanding action on "critically high" nitrate levels in Iowa drinking water.

Advocates for Nebraskans with disabilities said work requirements for Medicaid recipients implemented by the state on May 1 threaten services for people who need them most.

MercyOne is set to close its southside Des Moines clinic next month, citing staffing shortages, rising costs and pending cuts to Medicaid reimbursement funds.

The U.S. House has passed a version of the Farm Bill without an immunity shield for pesticide makers if their products are found to be carcinogenic.

Iowa lawmakers have passed a measure that makes it harder to qualify for nutrition assistance programs, and tightens residency requirements for immigrants who need help.

UnitedHealthcare and its partners are investing $250,000 to help improve maternal health in southeast Missouri’s Bootheel, where infant mortality rates are among the highest, reaching up to 11 deaths per 1,000 births.