Nikoel Hytrek is Iowa Starting Line’s longest-serving reporter. She covers LGBTQ issues, abortion rights and all topics of interest to Iowans. Her biggest goal is to help connect the dots between policy and people’s real lives. If you have story ideas or tips, send them over to nikoel@new.iowastartingline.com.
Nikoel Hytrek
Latest from Nikoel Hytrek
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A step-by-step guide on how to register to vote in 2025
Here is a complete guide on how to register to vote in Iowa.
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Iowa Republicans advance law that could expose drag performances to obscenity lawsuits
Republicans are pushing to open obscenity laws in hopes of making it easier to sue drag performers.
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IA Republicans advance bill that could require schools to teach fetal personhood
Republican legislators advanced a bill requiring schools to show students in grades 7-12 videos about the stages of fetal development, without any requirements that the videos be scientifically or medically accurate.
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IA students question need for bill that allows for disrespecting names in school
A bill that would ensure there are no penalties for disrespecting students and school employees advanced through a House education subcommittee on Tuesday morning with support from Reps. Helena Hayes (R–New Sharon) and Henry Stone (R–Forest City). Rep. Heather Matson (D-Ankeny) did not support the legislation. The bill states that there should be no penalties…
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IA Republicans advance bill to make schools teach that life begins at conception
A bill requiring educators to teach students that life begins at conception was passed through a Senate subcommittee on Thursday by Sens. Jeff Taylor (R-Sioux Center) and Sandy Salmon (R-Janesville).
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“Win-Win” healthy food program passes first hurdle
More help could be coming to Iowans who need assistance to afford healthy foods. Iowa senators Wednesday discussed a bill to invest $1 million for 2025-2026 in the Double Up Food Bucks program
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Incorrect anti-abortion propaganda should be taught in IA schools, GOP legislators propose
Iowa Republican lawmakers have resurrected a proposal requiring schools teach anti-abortion propaganda to students in grades 7-12
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Anti-hunger advocates still see options to fight IA’s hunger crisis
As the hunger crisis worsens in Iowa and Republican Gov. Kim Reynolds again rejected federal money for summer feeding programs, anti-hunger advocates say they’re not giving up on finding ways to get people help.
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Rook Room, new board game lounge and cafe, to open in Des Moines
Des Moines will get a new space to play boardgames and socialize this spring with the opening of the Rook Room Game Lounge & Cafe.
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