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Iowa early News Headlines: Wed., March 26th 2014

News

March 26th, 2014 by Ric Hanson

Here is the latest Iowa news from The Associated Press…

DES MOINES, Iowa (AP) — Lawmakers in the Iowa House have advanced a bill attempting to change the state’s law dealing with drunken drivers. The bill would allow offenders to begin driving more quickly if they install an ignition lock device, which requires drivers to show they haven’t had alcohol before their vehicle ignition will unlock.

DES MOINES, Iowa (AP) — An effort to toughen laws against sexual assaults in state military forces and to hold the Iowa National Guard accountable for such abuses has won the Iowa House’s support. The measure would ensure that victims are aware of their right to report assaults and require the Guard to comply with certain reporting standards. It would require the Iowa National Guard to file a report annually to the Legislature detailing sexual abuse allegations. It also would make it illegal for a commander to interfere in a victim’s reporting process.

COUNCIL BLUFFS, Iowa (AP) — A county official in western Iowa is questioning how Council Bluffs police recorded inaccurate crime data in the past. The Council Bluffs Police Department recently announced that crime data for most of 2012 was reported at a higher rate because of a glitch in its records software. Authorities say the problem was resolved late last year.

DES MOINES, Iowa (AP) — A bill that previously added pets to domestic abuse protective orders was amended by the Iowa House to also include property of emotional value. The legislation would give judges discretion to include property if a victim is emotionally attached to such items as well.