DES MOINES – The first proposal for school funding has advanced through a subcommittee in the Iowa Senate. KCCI-TV reports the proposal increases per pupil funding by 1.75% from the previous fiscal year. Several speakers who showed up criticized the funding, as it again falls below year-to-year inflation. Republicans on the subcommittee argued the number is what the state can afford against other priorities. Both the Iowa House and Senate must agree on a funding number before sending it the governor.

DES MOINES – A new survey of governors in 50 states shows that Kim Reynolds remains the most unpopular. KGAN-TV reports a Morning Consult survey from October to December of 2025 included registered voters state-by-state. Reynolds showed the highest disapproval rating of 49%, tied with Alaska’s Michael Dunleavy. The governor is not seeking re-election.

CEDAR RAPIDS – MercyOne has announced more layoffs in the state. KCRG-TV reports a third round of employees were notified at the MercyOne North Iowa Medical Center in Mason City that they would be losing their jobs. That round included 34 people and will take effect on March 17th. Earlier this year, MercyOne announced the closure of a clinic in Ottumwa and a workforce reduction of 67 people in Des Moines.