public safety

Nine Des Moines metro communities are participating in the Ride Safe n’ Smart campaign to promote safe riding practices in public spaces. E-bikes and other electric vehicles are becoming increasingly popular, which is raising concerns about public safety on trails and sidewalks.

For years, the Iowa State Patrol has set a goal of keeping traffic deaths below 300. In 2025, they not only met that goal, but had the fewest fatalities since 1925 at 259. We discuss some of the factors that have led to this decrease, including the hands-free driving law that took effect July 2025, with full enforcement beginning in January. We also learn about Alive at 25, a safety initiative launched by the Iowa Department of Transportation last fall to improve driving behavior among the state's youngest drivers. (This show was originally produced Jan. 8, 2026.)

For years the Iowa State Patrol has set a goal of keeping traffic deaths below 300. In 2025, they not only met that goal, but had the smallest number since 1925 with 259 deaths. On this episode we discuss some of the factors that have led to this decrease, including the hands-free driving law that took effect in July with full enforcement beginning this January. We also learn about Alive at 25, a safety initiative aimed at improving driver behavior among the state's youngest drivers. Lastly, an update on the Iowa Bicycle Coalition's safety objectives for the next legislative session.

Legal scholar David Rabban discusses academic freedom during a moment when it is at risk. Also, Gazette reporters share their answers to reader questions as part of their Curious Iowa series.

Women are more likely to be victims of domestic abuse or sexual assault, while men are more likely than women to be murdered. But we don't socialize boys and girls to understand the real threats to their safety.

As the Woodbury County Board of Supervisors considers passing a new ordinance allowing for nuclear energy, several residents voice their disapproval.