Iowa Attorney General Brenna Bird recently provided insights into the ongoing efforts of her office, highlighting key initiatives in public safety, border security, and consumer protection on Saturday afternoon in Ottumwa.
A significant focus for Bird’s office is the newly established Cold Case Unit, which is actively investigating over 400 unsolved cases across the state since its creation a few years ago in her first term. She mentions how the initiative is still up and going and confirms that charges are pending in one county for one case. She acknowledges the inherent difficulty of these long-standing investigations, but asserted that she will always pursue justice, especially for the families that have yet to seek closure for their loved ones.
In a move to bolster the safety of those who serve, Bird commended the Iowa Legislature for recently increasing penalties for assaults on law enforcement and first responders. This new legislation, which went into effect earlier this month, is a direct result of the Attorney General’s advocacy and aims to provide greater protection for these essential personnel.
Bird drew a strong connection between drugs and crime, noting that narcotics are a “big driver in a lot of crime.” She highlighted recent improvements in border security that she’s seen with her own eyes in Yuma, Arizona where she made an appearance there with other Republican Attorneys General to speak about immigration at the southern border. Bird believes the improved security has saved many lives. She observed a positive shift in morale among border agents as well. Regarding the ICE raids in the state, Bird clarified that these operations are not widespread but are strategically targeted at individuals with existing warrants, those already in custody, or those deemed to be the most dangerous.
However, the Attorney General expressed some frustration with judicial sentencing decisions. While Bird recognized the value of probation and second chances in certain cases, Bird emphasized that stringent sentencing ensures accountability when it’s necessary.
Looking beyond immediate crime fighting, Bird stressed the importance of foundational education, advocating for history, civics, and the Constitution to be a priority in schools. She suggests a belief in fostering civic responsibility and understanding among younger generations.
Attorney General Bird revealed her determination to improve efforts against people who use the Medicaid program for fraud and abuse. Although, she admitted it is quite difficult. In a move to protect Iowans’ finances, her office is actively suing cryptocurrency ATMs. These machines, she noted, have reportedly facilitated the loss of approximately $20 million from Iowans in less than three years. Bird also highlighted a disturbing trend in scamming, where criminals are targeting people who have lost a spouse in the last year or two when they are most vulnerable.
Wapello County Republican Party Chair Trudy Caviness brought forth a new legal concept that garnered Attorney General Bird’s interest: an educational power of attorney. This innovative law would empower an individual, designated by a parent or legal guardian, to make educational decisions for a child, even if that individual is not the child’s guardian. The caveat is that the parent or guardian would need to formally grant permission to this appointed individual. This new law could be particularly beneficial by giving the appointed individual the authority to act on behalf of the student in school matters, such as attending parent-teacher conferences, reviewing academic records, communicating directly with school staff, and advocating for the student’s needs. The law could also grant the appointed individual consent to put the student in specific educational programs or services. For example, they could approve participation in special education programs, extracurricular activities, or specialized tutoring if deemed necessary for the student’s success. Bird mentioned she hadn’t heard of the proposed law before, but was fascinated with the idea. She advised Caviness to discuss it with members of the judicial committee.
Note: Listen to a Q&A session with Iowa Attorney General Brenna Bird at the top of the article.
