QCA.news - Quad Cities news and view from both sides of the river

Thursday, January 29th, 2026
	Moline double shooting suspect seeking pretrial release An 18-year-old has been charged with two counts of aggravated battery with a firearm in a Jan. 23 shooting at Chimies Taco Bar that seriously injured two men.
	While smaller movie theaters struggle to stay in business, Voy Theatre to close The decades-old tradition of going to the theater with friends or family to escape reality and enjoy a movie is becoming a lost experience. It has been since 2020, when the global pandemic and rapid growth of streaming services caused a quick decline in attendance. "A lot of (theaters) didn't come back after COVID came, [...]
	2025 sees record number of billion-dollar severe weather events 2025 was also the first year in a decade where a hurricane didn't make landfall in the U.S. Here's how an expert says you can best protect your home now.
	Rock Island Mayor Ashley Harris outlines ideas growth during State of the City speech "I want Rock Island to be a place where people can come when they need affordability, love, encouragement and upward mobility," Mayor Ashley Harris said during his address Thursday.
	Mayor Ashley Harris calls on residents to 'help move Rock Island forward' "Today, you're going to hear Mayor Ashley Harris' plans for Rock Island." Rock Island Mayor Ashley Harris delivered his State of the City Address on Thursday. He covered a wide range of goals and efforts to revitalize Rock Island and calls on residents to help him in the effort. The theme was 'commitment to community'. [...]
	Programming note: Law & Order A programming note for Thursday night.
	How Democrats want to reform DHS – and why some Republicans are open to their demands A spending agreement under consideration in the Senate would temporarily fund the Department of Homeland Security while lawmakers negotiate provisions to rein in federal immigration agents.
	Fundraiser helps Nahant Marsh turtle that needs emergency surgery An animal ambassador at Nahant Marsh Education Center in Davenport is going through a tough time. Oneida the turtle is an ornate box turtle, a species native to the Midwest. She is currently egg-bound, which means a large egg is stuck in her reproductive tract. The situation is life-threatening, so she will need surgery within [...]
	Honoring Black History: Zay When a local artist known as Zay was asked to create a mural for Celebrity's Beauty Supply in Davenport, he came through. Strong, bold and uniquely Zay. His art represents MLK and other historic figures and influencers in the Black community. Watch the video above as Our Quad Cities News’ Danielle Davis shows us how [...]
	Red Cross assists dozens displaced by Rock Island fire Forty people are displaced after a fire tore through an apartment building in Rock Island. For those with nowhere else to go, the Red Cross opened its doors in Moline — first as a reception center, then as an overnight shelter.
	Inside Iowa Politics: Calls for leadership changes after ICE fatal shooting of protester Iowa members of Congress are not calling for President Donald Trump to remove some of his top leaders involved in immigration enforcement.
	Galesburg juvenile detention center to shut down Knox County Board officials told KWQC an Illinois judge closed the center.
	Mary Davis Detention Home closing indefinitely The facility will close by March 21. A Knox County Board member said the Ninth Judicial Circuit of Illinois made the decision.
	IA Gov. Kim Reynolds introduces charter school funding bill The bill would more closely align funding for charter schools with public schools.
	Iowa governor proposes new funding bill for public charter schools The bill would allow state funding to follow a student if they transfer from a public school to a public charter school.
	Mary Davis Detention Home closing indefinitely The facility will close by March 21. A Knox County Board member said the Ninth Judicial Circuit of Illinois made the decision.
	How hotels help identify and prevent human trafficking in Illinois A 2019 state law requires certain hotel, restaurant and truck stop workers to attend trafficking training. Here's how two QC lawmakers strengthened that law in 2025.
	Davenport responds to ICE cooperation bill In a packed council meeting, aldermen unanimously passed Issue Paper 26-05, opposing a legislative proposal that would force local law enforcement agencies to cooperate with Immigration and Customs Enforcement officers.
	Crime Stoppers: $15K in tools stolen after shipping containers, trailers broken into Officials said several shipping containers and trailers were broken into and damaged.
	Galesburg juvenile detention center to shut down Knox County Board officials told KWQC an Illinois judge closed the center.
	Temperatures on the Upward Trend next Month After a long trend of cold weather with temperatures in the teens and overnight lows in the single digits, we are getting back to average temperatures. This weekend is going to be warming up back into the 20s on Saturday and near 30s on Sunday with a light chance of snow As we look toward [...]
	2025 was one of the costliest years on record for severe storms There were a record-setting 21 thunderstorms with tornadoes, hail and damaging winds, each causing a billion dollars in damage.
	Man accused of shooting 2 people in Moline looking for pretrial release A hearing for 18-year-old Fernando Gomez-Lule is set for Tuesday.
	Rock Island Mayor Ashley Harris delivers 2026 State of the City address The full speech is available to watch on the free News8+ app.
	Rock Island Mayor presents his first “State of the City” address at Bally’s Unveiling a new “Magnificent Ten” task force for Rock Island, and purple-uniformed police officers are among 2026 goals for Mayor Ashley Harris. In his first “State of the City” address, held Wednesday, January 29th, at Bally’s Quad Cities Casino and Hotel, the new mayor praised city accomplishments and addressed its challenges head on.
	Crime Stoppers: Man wanted by Iowa Department of Corrections for escape Reggion Anderson, 24, is wanted by the Iowa Department of Corrections High Risk Unit for escape and probation violations on charges of theft and assault with injury.
	Crime Stoppers: Woman wanted in Illinois, Iowa for failure to appear in court Amanda Overstreet, 34, is wanted in Iowa and Illinois for failure to appear in court and a probation violation.
	$15K in tools stolen after shipping containers, trailers broken into Officials said several shipping containers and trailers were broken into and damaged.
	Illinois hotel official describes efforts to combat human trafficking Keenan Irish with the Illinois Hotel Association joined The Current on News 8 to describe efforts to stop trafficking and support survivors.
	With his first Grammy nomination, Destin Conrad embraces personal evolution Destin Conrad went from teen social media star to a musician touring the world on some of its biggest stages. In 2025, he put out both an R&B and jazz album and earned his first Grammy nomination.
	Galva man charged with possession of child sexual abuse material A Galva man has been arrested and charged with possession of child sexual abuse material. The investigation remains ongoing.
	Illinois State Board of Education looking for sponsors for summer meal program According to Illinois officials, the Summer Food Service Program provided more than 4.2 million meals and snacks to children in need in 2025.
	Incident at Sterling homeless shelter leads to man’s arrest, aggravated battery to a police officer A man in Sterling was arrested after deputies with the Whiteside County Sheriff’s Office say he threw a rock at them and began fighting with deputies.
	Rock Island mayor delivers state of the city address Rock Island Mayor Ashley Harris delivered his 2026 state of the city address Thursday.
	TMBC Lincoln Resource Center announces Black Excellence Fest Organizers said the festival will kick off Black History Month with a soul food social, a custom nine-hole mini golf course, a makers' market and more.
	Galva man arrested, charged with possession of child sex abuse material A Galva man is being held without bond in the Henry County Jail after a multi-agency investigation led to charges of possession of child sexual abuse material. A news release from the Galva Police Department said officers received information regarding suspected criminal activity and began an investigation, leading to the execution of a search warrant [...]
	Iowa Coalition Against Sexual Assault merges with Iowa Coalition Against Domestic Violence Direct victim services to sexual assault survivors are still available and not affected by the transition, the organizations said.
	Are trees exploding in the cold? The recent cold temperatures have led to online posts claiming that trees are exploding from the cold. Emily Swihart, Horticulture Educator with the University of Illinois Extension, spoke with Our Quad Cities News via Zoom to set the record straight on “exploding trees.” She said people don’t need to worry about their trees going to [...]
	Police: Burlington man charged after stabbing, armed encounter with officers A Burlington man has been arrested after a stabbing left one person seriously injured.
	UnityPoint Health clinic assists in managing diabetes More than 15-percent of adults in Scott, Rock Island, and Muscatine counties are living with a diabetes diagnosis.
	U-Haul strikes Davenport train bridge A truck eating bridge has struck again.
	Davenport advocates for local law enforcement control in response to Iowa bill More than a hundred people packed Davenport City Hall on Wednesday to advocate the city take a strong stance against a state bill requiring local officers to cooperate with ICE.
	Burlington casino sold, rebranded to Great River Casino & FunCity The casino will be rebranded as Great River Casino Resort and FunCity, effective immediately, according to a company release.
	How the West was won: K-pop's great assimilation gambit The crossover hits stacking Grammy nods this year have little in common with the culture that birthed them — but they're winning the chart game.
	More staff shakeups at the Kennedy Center The departures include Kevin Couch, who was announced as the Kennedy Center's senior vice president of artistic planning less than two weeks ago.
	Early morning attic fire leads to evacuation, multi-department response An attic fire prompted evacuations and several fire crews from neighboring department to respond early Thursday morning.
	Davenport is taking a formal stance against ICE presence in Iowa Davenport’s city council has embraced some of the widespread outrage among Quad City residents over the fatal ICE shootings in Minneapolis by formally asserting its police department’s autonomy in respect to working with federal law enforcement.
	Sterling man arrested, accused of throwing rock at deputy, being unruly at shelter A Sterling man was arrested after he allegedly was unruly at a homeless shelter and threw a large rock at a deputy. According to a news release from the Whiteside County Sheriff’s Office, deputies were dispatched to the PADS homeless shelter in Sterling on January 28 at about 9 a.m. for a report of an [...]
	"Amniotic Ambiguity: Comparative Embryology to Queering a Space," February 8 through August 20 A fascinating collaborative art installation that invites viewers to return to a place before definition, Amniotic Ambiguity: Comparative Embryology to Queering a Space will be on display in Augustana College's Wallenberg Hall February 8 through August 20, artists Maggie Adams and Aykeem Spivey demonstrating how, in this period of incubation, black-or-white thinking is disrupted by a bold labor of love.
	Cold weather challenges local farmers to keep animals safe As bitter cold grips the Quad Cities region, local free-range farmers adjust feed, water and shelter to keep animals warm and healthy during winter extremes.
	Medicare Advantage insurers face new curbs on overcharges in Trump plan Federal officials have a plan that could curb billions of dollars in overpayments to Medicare Advantage plans. But will they follow through on it?
	Border czar says he plans to "draw down" ICE and CBP operations in Minnesota Tom Homan, who took over leadership of the surge in Minneapolis, says he is working on a plan to reduce the force of federal agents in the Twin Cities.
	George Saunders' 'Vigil' is a brief and bumpy return to the Bardo The Bardo is a Tibetan Buddhist idea of a suspended state between life and death. Saunders explored the concept in his 2017 novel, Lincoln in the Bardo, and circles back to it again in his new novel Vigil.
	Former NBC producer tells her own story about Matt Lauer in 'Unspeakable Things' Brooke Nevils was working for NBC at the Sochi Olympics when, she says, she was sexually assaulted by Today Show host Matt Lauer — a claim he denies. Nevils' new memoir is Unspeakable Things.
	Public gets a chance to comment on U.S. 67 Corridor and Centennial Bridge alternatives Quad-Cities residents took an opportunity Wednesday to weigh in on the future of the Centennial Bridge and the U.S. 67 corridor.
	A$AP Rocky, ENHYPEN, Bad Bunny duke it out for No. 1 on the pop charts It was a three-way, down-to-the-wire race between A$AP Rocky, ENHYPEN and Bad Bunny to be No. 1 on this week's Billboard 200 albums chart.
	Durant man sentenced on child pornography charge A Durant man has been sentenced to 84 months (seven years) in federal prison for transportation of child pornography, according to a news release from the Department of Justice, Southern District of Iowa. According to public court documents and evidence presented at sentencing, the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children received multiple cybertips that [...]
	Senate fails to advance spending bills as Democrats push for DHS reforms Senators blocked a package of six spending bills that includes funding for the Department of Homeland Security as Democrats continue to push for reforms to immigration enforcement.
	Safety officials warn of dangerous ice conditions as temperatures rise Whether you’re heading out to walk, fish, or use a snowmobile or ATV, the Iowa Department of Natural Resources says knowing the limits of ice is critical, especially as temperatures fluctuate.
	Davenport rejects ICE cooperation In a packed council meeting, aldermen unanimously passed Issue Paper 26-05, opposing a legislative proposal that would force local law enforcement agencies to cooperate with Immigration and Customs Enforcement officers.
	Searching for America in song with historian Jill Lepore With a song from 1759 as a mile marker, pianist Lara Downes and historian Jill Lepore examine what this land was like just before it became the United States.
	Davenport hosting budget workshops, honored for financial reporting The City of Davenport has been honored for its financial reporting while it works on its 2027 budget. Davenport has been honored with the Triple Crown Award from the Government Financial Officers Association (GFOA). The award recognizes the city’s commitment to excellence across multiple areas of financial reporting. The Triple Crown is a prestigious award [...]
	What happens when you make minimum payments What happens when you make minimum paymentsEvery credit card bill includes a minimum payment warning — required by law — that shows how long it will take and how much it will cost to pay off your balance if you only make the minimum payment. Most people barely notice it.More than one in nine credit card holders at the nation’s largest banks made only the minimum payment on their balances, according to the Federal Reserve Bank of Philadelphia. For millions of households facing rising costs, minimum payments can quietly keep debt around for years.The financial experts at Accredited Debt Relief explain what really happens when you only pay the minimum — and why it’s important to understand the long-term impact.What are minimum payments?Minimum payments are the least amount you can pay monthly on your debt without incurring penalties. Every creditor calculates minimum payments differently. Most minimum payments are calculated as a percentage of the principal balance owed.Typical minimum payments are two to four percent of your principal balance or a fixed floor rate, whichever is greater.For example, a typical fixed floor amount is around $25 to $35. To remain in good standing, you must pay at least this amount until your principal is less than the floor. Most creditors will ask you to pay off the balance in full when this occurs.Is making minimum payments a good idea?Making minimum payments keeps your account in good standing, but it is the slowest and most expensive way to pay back your debt.Making minimum payments does:Prevent late feesPrevent derogatory marks on your credit scoreKeep you in good standing with your creditorMaking minimum payments does not:Save money on your debtPay off debt fasterLower your DTI quickly to improve creditworthinessMinimum payments are not consumer friendlyAt first, minimum payments seem like a good deal. You can borrow large amounts of money or use credit without having to pay a lot up front. Unfortunately, paying a little now means you’ll end up paying much more over time.Minimum payments can extend your debt repayment timeline to 30 years or more, which benefits the creditor!What happens if you pay more than the minimum payments?When you pay more than the minimum payment on your debt, you pay down your principal balance faster.The principal is the total amount you borrowed.Interest is what you pay the creditor as a fee for borrowing the money.With most debts, each payment is applied to interest and fees first. Only what’s left goes toward reducing the principal. When balances and interest rates are high, minimum payments often cover mostly interest, making it slow to shrink what you actually owe.You can estimate how much of a payment goes toward interest by calculating your monthly interest charge:(APR ÷ 100 ÷ 12) × current balanceSubtracting that amount from your payment shows how much is applied to the principal. The more you pay above the minimum, the more of your money goes toward reducing the balance itself.The amount of principal vs. interest paidFor example, on a credit card with a 23% interest rate and a minimum payment of 3%, a $1,000 balance requires a $30 minimum payment. Of that payment, about $19 goes toward interest, while only $11 reduces the principal.This is how credit card debt keeps people stuck. Even when you make your minimum payment on time, most of your money is going toward interest charges — not toward lowering what you actually owe.As balances grow, interest takes an even larger share of each payment, slowing progress and extending debt for years. Without paying more than the minimum, it can feel like you’re doing everything right while barely moving forward.This example is for illustrative purposes. Actual interest charges vary based on your card issuer, billing cycle, and balance calculation method, but they reflect how credit card minimum payments are typically applied.Will making minimum payments hurt my credit?Making minimum payments prevents you from delinquency, which is good for your credit score, but because it is a slow and expensive way to pay back debt, it can still affect your creditworthiness.DTI or Debt-to-Income Ratio compares your total debt to your income. Since your income isn’t listed on your credit report, DTI won’t affect your score. However, lenders will look at your DTI, so it can affect your ability to take on new debt as well as the interest rate you receive.Is there a better way to get out of debt?Paying more than the minimum is one of the most effective ways to reduce debt, since it lowers interest costs and speeds up repayment. But not everyone has the flexibility to make larger monthly payments or pay down balances in lump sums.If that isn’t realistic, borrowers may need to look at other options, such as consolidating multiple debts into a single payment or speaking with a financial or debt professional to review structured repayment or relief options. These approaches can help create a clearer plan for managing balances when minimum payments are the only affordable short-term option.The best approach depends on your income, total debt, and financial circumstances — but understanding when to explore alternatives can help prevent debt from lingering longer than necessary.This story was produced by Accredited Debt Relief and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	Sanctum of Souls, operating out of former Calvary Lutheran Church in Buffalo, closes A member of the group running Sanctum of Souls said they are closing due to not generating enough revenue to cover bills.
	How employers can combat the $190B burnout crisis How employers can combat the $190B burnout crisisEmployee burnout can’t be treated simply as a “nice-to-have” wellbeing topic. It’s a financial issue hiding in plain sight, one that shows up in rising claims, leaves of absence, turnover, and stalled performance.In fact, research has linked workplace stress to up to $190 billion in healthcare costs each year in the U.S. That number should change how we think about wellness programs. If the cost of burnout is already embedded in an organization’s medical spend and workforce instability, then surface-level fixes won’t be enough.The state of employee burnout in the workplaceEmployee burnout has become an ongoing crisis in workplaces globally. The constant, day-to-day stress that often leads to burnout is now considered an unfortunate, almost expected part of the job.65% of employees are as stressed or more stressed than they were five years ago52% said they felt burned out in the past year due to their job, with 37% so overwhelmed that it impacted their performanceWhat’s driving it? It’s not just long hours. According to new research from Spring Health and Forrester, employees are grappling with financial stress, unmanageable workloads, and a lack of work-life balance—factors that compound daily strain.Burnout is affecting every corner of the workforce:HR teams are stretched thin, with 57% working beyond capacityManagers are overwhelmed, often lacking training to support their teams—41% of employees lack confidence in their manager’s ability to address mental health concernsMid-level employees are especially vulnerable—54% reported experiencing burnout last yearDespite all this, 78% of employees feel only moderately supported—at best—by their company’s mental health offerings.The takeaway? Employees are mentally depleted, managers are barely staying afloat, and HR leaders are being asked to solve a system-wide issue with inadequate tools and resources.Burnout isn’t just a people problem—it’s a business problemMany organizations still view burnout as a personal issue or something HR alone should manage. But burnout is systemic, and it has measurable consequences:$1 trillion in lost productivity annually$550 million in lost workdays each year$15,000 per employee in turnover costsIncreased medical spend due to the link between mental and physical comorbidities (e.g., depression and cardiovascular disease)When left unchecked, burnout leads to absenteeism, presenteeism, disengagement, and high turnover. It erodes morale and culture—and when key contributors burn out, business continuity is at risk.The financial pressure is growing. CFOs and business leaders are increasingly asking for measurable ROI from mental health investments. And the companies that rise to the challenge—those that integrate mental health as a core business strategy—are the ones who will come out ahead.Structural burnout requires a structural solutionSurface-level solutions—like wellness stipends, mental health days, and outdated EAPs—are no longer cutting it.What’s needed is a culture-first approach that prioritizes:Meaningful workAutonomy and flexibilityHuman connection and belongingAccess to measurement-based mental health care for all acuity levelsAnd perhaps most importantly, organizations must equip managers with the tools and training to recognize burnout early, respond with empathy, and connect employees to support. Managers are the first line of defense, but they can’t pour from an empty cup. Supporting their mental health is just as important.Burnout prevention is the new cost-containment strategyProactive mental health strategies aren’t just good for people—they’re good for business.Companies that invest in prevention and early intervention see:Lower healthcare and disability claimsReduced leaves of absenceImproved retention and productivityFewer crisis escalationsHigher retentionAnd they’re building something more durable: a workforce that is resilient, engaged, and thriving—even in the face of ongoing change.What organizations should look for when evaluating solutionsEmployee burnout requires a comprehensive, clinically backed, and personalized approach. When evaluating mental health solutions, choose one that can provide:Clinically validated assessments to identify burnout risk earlyPersonalized care plans that meet each employee where they are—whether they need mindfulness tools, coaching, therapy, or high-acuity careManager support and training to equip leaders with the tools to recognize and respond to burnout within their teamsCare navigation for seamless, human-guided access to the right careOngoing support through life’s biggest challenges—not just one-time responsesBuilding a workplace where people thriveThe future of work depends on workforce wellbeing. If burnout remains unchecked, businesses will continue to face rising costs, declining morale, and a revolving door of talent.But the good news? The solution is within reach.Organizations that embed mental health into their culture—and treat it as a business strategy, not just a benefit—will unlock stronger performance, greater resilience, and a more engaged workforce.Because when employees thrive, business thrives.This story was produced by Spring Health and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	The rise of fiber in 2026: The nutrient driving today’s wellness conversation The rise of fiber in 2026: The nutrient driving today’s wellness conversationThe phrase “gut health” is coming up a lot lately online and in the wellness world. Digestive health has gone from being a niche topic to a critical element to feeling good overall: from energy levels and mood to comfort and balance.At the same time, fiber has stepped out of the background. It’s no longer just something nutrition experts talk about; it’s something people actively say they try to eat more of. The catch? 90% of women and 97% of men in the U.S. are not meeting their daily fiber requirements. They lack clarity on how much they need, how it affects their body beyond digestion, and how to realistically incorporate it into their daily routine.A new national survey commissioned by Sunsweet Growers explores how Americans think about gut health, fiber, and feeling good. The data shows gut health is a priority, but people still aren’t sure how to get the fiber they need.What is fiber and why do we need it?Fiber is a type of carbohydrate found in plant foods that your body can’t fully digest — but that’s actually a good thing. Instead of being broken down, fiber moves through the body undigested, helping things run smoothly and keeping your hunger and blood sugar levels stabilized. Fiber can help you feel fuller longer, support healthy blood sugar levels, and even lower cholesterol.There are two kinds of fiber — soluble and insoluble — and both are essential to overall health. Soluble fiber slows digestion and can help lower cholesterol, and it can be found in foods like oats, beans and apples. Insoluble fiber helps move foods through the digestive tract and promote regularity, and it can be found in foods like whole grains and dark leafy greens. Many whole foods, like prunes, contain both forms of fiber.Survey finds Americans think gut health is a core part of wellnessAccording to the Nutrition and Digestive Health Survey, an online survey of 1,249 nationally representative American adults fielded by YouGov on behalf of Sunsweet conducted December 18-19, 2025, most Americans see gut health as a core part of everyday wellness. Sunsweet Growers Findings include:Good digestion is rated as important by 95% of U.S. adults and sits on par with hydration (97%), vitamin intake (92%), and energy levels (91%).84% of U.S. adults believe that gut health is at least somewhat associated with feeling good day to day.Parents are more likely than non-parents to say having good digestion is very important to their overall well-being (71% vs. 61%).Malina Malkani, MS, RD, who has worked with Sunsweet, explains, “As both a pediatric dietitian and mom of three, I know too well how disruptive digestive discomfort can be for families. Supporting digestive health through adequate fiber intake isn’t just about optimizing their gut health; it’s about helping the whole family feel good so that family life runs more smoothly.”According to the survey:Nearly half of U.S. adults (44%) wish it were easier to get more fiber day to day, yet a majority either don’t know how much fiber they should consume (37%) or underestimate the recommended amount (20% select fewer than 20 grams).When asked, “About how many grams of fiber do you think the average adult needs per day?” respondents answered: Under 10 grams (4%); 10–19 grams (16%); 20–29 grams (26%); 30 grams or more (17%); Don’t know (37%). Sunsweet Growers Simple habits are the way to wellnessAs Americans increasingly define wellness by how they feel, fiber sits at the center of that shift. If you’re ready to embrace a fiber-rich diet, set yourself up for success with small, manageable nutrition habits that fit into real life rather than big, restrictive overhauls.“Small, simple shifts, made gradually and paired with plenty of fluids to help keep things moving, can make a meaningful difference in fiber intake,” Malkani explains. “Choosing foods like prunes is an easy way to increase your fiber intake by adding three grams per serving. You can also swap to whole grains over refined, add beans and vegetables to soups, stews, or dips, incorporate fruit into yogurt parfaits or oatmeal, and add ground nuts or seeds into smoothies, pancakes, or muffins.”With a little intention and a few smart swaps, getting enough fiber can move from a challenge to a habit that supports long-term health.This story was produced by Sunsweet Growers and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	Enjoy specialty beverages at Draft & Craft Beer Festival Beer lovers are invited to raise a glass at the Draft & Craft Beer Festival, at the QCCA Expo Center in Rock Island, Illinois, on Saturday, January 31 from 1 – 4 p.m. The event features a wide selection of craft beers, ciders and specialty beverages from regional and national breweries. Early Access ticket holders [...]
	How to screen tenants fairly and stay compliant as a small landlord How to screen tenants fairly and stay compliant as a small landlordAs a small landlord, a single bad tenant can devastate your business. Unlike large management companies with diversified portfolios and legal departments, you don’t have the financial cushion to absorb months of unpaid rent, costly eviction proceedings, or thousands of dollars in property damage.When your livelihood depends on finding reliable tenants, the temptation to rely on gut feelings, personal preferences, or seemingly “safe” assumptions about applicants becomes dangerously strong—but these instincts often lead to illegal discrimination that can result in costly lawsuits, hefty fines, and damaged reputations.Understanding how to screen tenants fairly while staying compliant with all applicable laws doesn’t have to be overwhelming. With the right tools, knowledge, and processes, you can confidently evaluate applicants, select qualified tenants, and protect yourself from legal liability, RentRedi reports.Understanding Fair Housing Laws and Your Legal ObligationsFair housing laws exist to ensure that all prospective tenants have equal access to rental housing regardless of their protected characteristics. These laws create a legal framework that affects every aspect of the tenant screening process, from how you advertise vacancies to the criteria you use for making rental decisions.Federal Fair Housing Act ProtectionsThe Federal Fair Housing Act prohibits discrimination based on seven protected classes:RaceColorReligionSexNational originFamilial statusDisabilityThese protections apply to virtually all rental housing, with very limited exceptions for owner-occupied buildings with four or fewer units and single-family homes rented without a real estate agent.It’s absolutely essential for small landlords to have a firm understanding of what constitutes discrimination under federal law. Discrimination can be intentional (disparate treatment) or unintentional (disparate impact):Disparate treatment occurs when you deliberately treat applicants differently based on protected characteristics.Disparate impact happens when seemingly neutral policies disproportionately affect protected groups, even without discriminatory intent.The law covers all aspects of the rental process, including advertising, application procedures, screening criteria, lease terms, and ongoing tenant relations. Even casual comments about preferred tenant types or neighborhood demographics can create legal liability if they suggest bias against protected groups.State and Local Fair Housing ExpansionsMany states and municipalities have expanded fair housing protections beyond federal requirements, often including additional protected classes such as:Sexual orientationGender identitySource of incomeCriminal historyImmigration statusThese local expansions can significantly impact your screening procedures and require careful attention to comply with all applicable laws.Source of income protection, for example, means you generally cannot refuse applicants who receive housing vouchers, disability benefits, or other government assistance. Criminal history restrictions might limit your ability to automatically reject applicants with certain types of convictions or require individualized assessments rather than blanket policies.The Cost of Non-ComplianceFair housing violations can result in severe financial and legal consequences that can devastate small landlords. Federal penalties can reach $23,000 for first-time violations and up to $115,000 for repeat offenses. Private lawsuits can result in unlimited damages, including compensatory damages, punitive damages, and attorney fees.Beyond financial penalties, fair housing violations can damage your reputation, create ongoing legal complications, and result in court-ordered changes to your rental practices. The time, stress, and costs associated with defending against discrimination claims often far exceed the expense of implementing proper screening procedures from the beginning.Establishing Legal Screening CriteriaThe best way to remain compliant with fair housing laws is to create clear, objective tenant screening criteria. Your criteria should be related to an applicant’s ability to be a successful tenant and applied consistently to all applicants regardless of their protected characteristics.Income and employment requirementsIncome requirements are among the most common and legally defensible screening criteria. Most landlords require tenants to earn between 2.5 to 3 times the monthly rent in gross income, which helps ensure they can afford the rental payments. However, you must apply these requirements consistently and consider all legal sources of income, including employment, self-employment, government benefits, and other verifiable income sources.When evaluating employment history, focus on income stability and reliability rather than specific job types or employers. Requiring a certain length of employment history is generally acceptable, but be careful not to inadvertently discriminate against people in certain professions or those with non-traditional employment arrangements.Credit score and financial history standardsCredit score requirements can be an effective screening tool, but like income requirements, they must be applied fairly and consistently. Establish minimum credit score requirements based on legitimate business reasons, such as predicting the likelihood of timely rent payments.When reviewing credit reports, focus on factors most relevant to rental performance, like payment history, debt-to-income ratios, and any prior rental-related debts or evictions. Be prepared to consider explanations for negative credit events, particularly those related to medical expenses, divorce, or other circumstances beyond the applicant’s control.Consider implementing alternative credit evaluation methods for applicants with limited credit history, like requiring additional security deposits, co-signers, or prepaid rent. These accommodations can help you work with qualified applicants who might not meet traditional credit requirements while still protecting your interests.Criminal background check policiesCriminal background checks are one of the most legally complex aspects of tenant screening. While landlords generally have the right to consider criminal history, blanket policies that automatically reject all applicants with any criminal record can violate fair housing laws due to disparate impact on protected groups.Best practices for criminal background screening include focusing on recent convictions, considering the nature and severity of offenses, evaluating the relationship between criminal conduct and tenant suitability, and providing opportunities for individualized assessments. For example, financial crimes might be more relevant to rental decisions than minor drug offenses from many years ago.Many jurisdictions have implemented “ban the box” laws that restrict when and how you can inquire about criminal history. Some areas prohibit criminal background questions on initial applications, while others limit the types of convictions you can consider or require specific procedures for evaluating criminal history.Rental history and referencesPrevious rental history often provides the best predictor of future tenant behavior. When evaluating rental history, look for timely rent payments, compliance with lease terms, property care, and positive relationships with previous landlords. However, be careful not to penalize applicants who lack traditional rental history, such as first-time renters or those transitioning from homeownership.Reference checks should focus on objective, verifiable information rather than subjective opinions that might reflect personal biases. Ask specific questions about rent payment history, lease compliance, property condition, and any issues that arose during the tenancy. Document all reference conversations to maintain records of your decision-making process.For applicants without traditional rental history, consider alternative references such as mortgage payment history, utility payment records, or character references from employers or community members. These alternatives can provide insight into an applicant’s reliability and responsibility.The Application Process: Best Practices for ComplianceA well-designed application process protects both you and your applicants by ensuring consistent treatment and proper documentation. Your application procedures should be transparent, efficient, and legally compliant while gathering the information you need to make informed decisions.Creating compliant application materialsYour rental application should collect only information that’s legally permissible and relevant to tenant selection. Include sections for personal information, employment and income details, rental history, and references. Avoid questions about protected characteristics such as race, religion, national origin, or family composition that aren’t directly related to rental qualifications.Be careful about seemingly innocent questions that might indirectly reveal protected information. For example, asking about an applicant’s birthplace could reveal national origin, while questions about emergency contacts might indicate familial status. Focus on information directly related to the applicant’s ability to fulfill lease obligations.Consider using standardized application forms that ensure consistency across all applicants. Digital platforms not only maintain uniformity and securely store sensitive personal information, but also allow landlords to customize their applications. This means you can ask the questions that matter most to your rental process while staying aligned with specific state and local legal requirements.Documentation and record-keepingProper documentation is essential for demonstrating fair housing compliance and defending your rental decisions if challenged. Maintain detailed records of all applications received, screening criteria applied, and the basis for approval or denial decisions. This documentation should be objective and focus on legitimate business reasons for your decisions.You can organize screening results and rental decisions by using document storage capabilities in property management platforms. Screening reports include information about credit scores, income verification, rental history, background check results, and reference feedback. Avoid subjective comments or personal observations that might suggest bias or discrimination.Establish consistent record retention policies that comply with legal requirements in your area. Fair housing records should typically be maintained for at least two years, though some jurisdictions require longer retention periods.Conducting Background Checks Legally and EffectivelyBackground checks are a critical component of tenant screening, but they must be conducted in compliance with the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) and other applicable laws. Understanding your legal obligations and using reputable screening services helps ensure you obtain reliable information while protecting applicant rights.FCRA compliance requirementsThe Fair Credit Reporting Act regulates how you can use consumer reports, including credit reports and background checks, in tenant screening. FCRA compliance requires several specific steps, including obtaining written consent from applicants, providing required disclosures, and following proper procedures when denying applications based on report information.Before ordering any consumer reports, you must provide applicants with a clear disclosure that you may obtain reports for tenant screening purposes and obtain their written authorization. This disclosure must be provided on a separate document that contains no other information, ensuring applicants understand what they’re consenting to.If you decide to deny an application based partially or entirely on information in a consumer report, you must provide the applicant with an adverse action notice. This notice must include the name and contact information of the reporting agency, a statement that the agency didn’t make the decision, and information about the applicant’s right to obtain a free copy of the report and dispute inaccurate information.Choosing reliable screening servicesProfessional tenant screening services provide comprehensive background information while maintaining FCRA compliance and fair housing best practices. When selecting a screening provider, look for companies that partner with major credit bureaus, access extensive criminal and eviction databases, and provide clear, easy-to-understand reports.Quality screening services should offer comprehensive credit reports with rental-specific scoring, criminal background checks covering multiple jurisdictions, and eviction history from extensive databases. Look for providers that access over 370 million criminal records and millions of eviction records covering all 50 states for the most complete picture of applicant backgrounds.Consider screening services that integrate with property management platforms and provide standardized report formats that are easily understood and consistently applied. Professional screening services also typically maintain better legal compliance and provide customer support to help you understand and use screening information appropriately.Making Fair and Defensible Rental DecisionsThe decision-making phase of tenant screening is where fair housing compliance becomes most critical. Your rental decisions must be based on objective criteria applied consistently that relate to legitimate business interests rather than personal preferences or protected characteristics.Developing consistent decision-making processesCreate standardized procedures for evaluating applications and making rental decisions. Use scoring systems or checklists that objectively evaluate each applicant against your predetermined criteria. This systematic approach helps ensure consistent treatment while documenting your decision-making process.Consider implementing a point-based system that assigns numerical values to different criteria such as credit score, income level, rental history, and employment stability. This approach can help remove subjective judgment from the decision-making process while ensuring that all relevant factors are considered appropriately.Document the specific reasons for each rental decision, whether positive or negative. For approved applications, note the strengths that led to acceptance. For denied applications, clearly document the objective reasons for rejection based on your established criteria. Avoid subjective comments or personal observations that might suggest discriminatory intent.Providing adverse action noticesWhen you deny a rental application, proper notification is both a legal requirement and a professional courtesy. Adverse action notices must include the specific reasons for denial, whether they’re based on credit reports, background checks, or other factors. Generic rejection letters don’t meet legal requirements and can create fair housing liability.Focus on objective, criteria-based reasons for denial such as insufficient income, negative credit history, or poor rental references. Avoid subjective language or personal opinions that might suggest discriminatory intent. Be specific enough that applicants understand the basis for your decision while remaining professional and respectful.Include information about applicants’ rights to obtain copies of reports used in your decision and to dispute any inaccurate information. This demonstrates compliance with FCRA requirements while providing applicants with resources to address any issues that might affect future rental applications.Common Compliance Mistakes and How to Avoid ThemEven well-intentioned landlords can make costly compliance mistakes during the tenant screening process. Understanding the most common pitfalls helps you implement procedures that protect both your business and prospective tenants’ rights.Inconsistent application of criteriaOne of the most frequent fair housing violations occurs when landlords apply screening criteria inconsistently across different applicants. This might involve requiring higher income levels from certain applicants, accepting alternative documentation from some applicants but not others, or varying credit score requirements based on personal preferences.Common inconsistency mistakesFlexible standards for preferred applicants: Relaxing income requirements or credit standards for applicants you personally prefer while maintaining strict requirements for others creates clear evidence of discriminatory treatment.Selective documentation requirements: Accepting verbal employment verification from some applicants while requiring written documentation from others, or allowing some applicants to provide alternative income proof while rejecting similar documentation from different applicants.Variable processing timelines: Taking longer to process applications from certain applicants or rushing decisions for preferred candidates while delaying others can indicate discriminatory intent and violate fair housing principles.To avoid these mistakes, document your screening criteria clearly and apply them uniformly to every applicant. Use checklists or standardized forms to ensure consistent evaluation processes and maintain records showing that all applicants were treated according to the same standards.Inappropriate questions and commentsFair housing violations often occur through seemingly innocent questions or casual comments that reveal discriminatory intent or bias. These communications can create legal liability even when they don’t directly influence rental decisions.Examples of problematic communications include asking about family composition, commenting on applicants’ accents or names, inquiring about religious practices or dietary restrictions, or making assumptions about lifestyle preferences based on protected characteristics. Even positive stereotypes or well-intentioned comments can create legal problems.Train yourself to focus conversations with applicants on property features, lease terms, and objective qualification requirements. Avoid personal questions or observations that aren’t directly related to rental qualifications, and maintain professional boundaries throughout all interactions.Poor documentation practicesInadequate record-keeping can make it impossible to defend legitimate rental decisions and can create the appearance of discriminatory practices even when none existed. Common documentation failures include missing application materials, incomplete screening records, and subjective notes that suggest bias.Maintain comprehensive files for all applicants that include completed applications, screening reports, reference verification records, and documentation of your rental decision with specific reasons. Avoid handwritten notes with subjective observations, personal opinions, or comments about protected characteristics.Consider implementing standardized forms for all aspects of the screening process, from application receipt through final decision notification. These forms help ensure complete documentation while maintaining professional, objective records of your decision-making process.Technology Solutions for Compliant ScreeningModern property management technology can significantly improve both the efficiency and compliance of your tenant screening process. Digital platforms provide standardized procedures, automated compliance features, and comprehensive documentation to help protect you from fair housing violations.Digital Application PlatformsOnline application platforms help ensure consistent collection of information from all applicants while maintaining secure storage of sensitive personal data. These systems can include built-in compliance features such as automatic fair housing disclosures, application forms, and systematic processing workflows.Digital platforms often integrate with screening services, allowing seamless ordering of background checks and credit reports while maintaining FCRA compliance. Automated systems can generate required disclosures, obtain proper authorizations, and provide adverse action notices when necessary.Look for platforms that provide audit trails showing how applications were processed, what information was accessed, and what decisions were made. This documentation can be invaluable for demonstrating fair housing compliance if your rental decisions are ever challenged.Record-keeping and compliance monitoringDigital property management platforms typically automatically maintain comprehensive records of all applications, screening results, and rental decisions, with easy retrieval capabilities for legal compliance or audit purposes.Look for systems that can generate compliance reports showing how applications were processed, what criteria were applied, and what outcomes resulted. These reports can help you monitor your own practices for potential fair housing issues and demonstrate good faith compliance efforts.Many platforms also provide ongoing compliance updates and training resources to help you stay current with changing fair housing requirements. This support can be particularly valuable for small landlords who don’t have dedicated legal resources for tracking regulatory changes.Implementing Compliant Screening TodayUnderstanding fair housing requirements is only the first step—implementing compliant screening practices requires systematic action and ongoing commitment to legal and ethical tenant evaluation processes.The key to successful implementation is starting with clear, objective criteria based on legitimate business needs and applying those criteria consistently to every applicant. Document your procedures, maintain comprehensive records, and be prepared to explain the business reasons for your screening decisions.This story was produced by RentRedi and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	Why these women break the law to sell their eggs for IVF Women in India were told they couldn't be paid for their eggs. The result: a black market for eggs from women in need of money to survive.
	Rock Island mayor to deliver state of the city address Rock Island Mayor Ashley Harris will deliver his 2026 state of the city address Thursday.
	Federal childcare subsidies by state Federal childcare subsidies by stateWith recent fraud investigations ongoing in Minnesota and beyond — often allegedly centered on childcare businesses and other programs for needy children — followed by a new announcement of free daycares from New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani, taxpayers may be eager to understand where their tax dollars go.According to the latest data from the federal government’s Office of Child Care, just over $29 billion was spent on childcare subsidies in fiscal year 2022, with money issued from both federal and state government sources over the last few years. This funding can be assigned to a multitude of categorical intents, including ensuring quality programs, staff training, administrative costs, and more.With this in mind, SmartAsset ranked each U.S. state based on the number of federal dollars spent on subsidies to childcare centers per resident younger than five years old.Key FindingsNew Mexico has the highest federal childcare subsidies at $1,782 per child. A total of $187.1 million in federal subsidies was spent in 2022 on behalf of 104,994 children under age five residing in the state. West Virginia had the second-highest childcare subsidies per capita at $1,651 for each of 87,469 young children.Federal childcare subsidies are lowest in these states. South Dakota reported the lowest subsidies per capita in 2022 at $482 spent for each of 57,246 children under five. Virginia had the second-lowest rate of subsidies at $546 per child, followed by Nevada at $564 and Minnesota at $629.Massachusetts and Minnesota are among the most expensive for childcare. Nationwide, the weekly median cost of childcare ranges from $108 to $462, depending on location and age of the child. Infant care is most expensive, with Massachusetts and Minnesota ranking first and second-highest in this metric at $462 and $390 per week, respectively. Toddler prices in these states come in at $409 and $348 per week, while preschoolers cost a median of $310 in Massachusetts and $309 in Minnesota.Median childcare is less than $150 per week in these states. Regardless of child age, weekly median childcare costs clocked in lowest in Mississippi, where a week of infant care is $119, while a week of toddler or preschooler care is $108. Alabama is the second most affordable, with infant care at $136, toddler care at $134, and preschooler care at $126 weekly. In South Dakota, the median price is $150 for infants and toddlers, and $136 for preschoolers. SmartAsset Federal Childcare Subsidies and Cost of Childcare by StateStates are ranked based on the federal subsidy money spent on childcare purposes per resident under age five in fiscal year 2022.New MexicoFederal subsidies per resident child: $1,782.21Resident children under 5: 104,994Total federal subsidies: $187,121,763Weekly median price, infant care: NAWeekly median price, toddler care: NAWeekly median price, preschool care: NAWest VirginiaFederal subsidies per resident child: $1,651.20Resident children under 5: 87,469Total federal subsidies: $144,429,085Weekly median price, infant care: $167.49Weekly median price, toddler care: $159.10Weekly median price, preschool care: $164.85MassachusettsFederal subsidies per resident child: $1,424.21Resident children under 5: 342,252Total federal subsidies: $487,438,791Weekly median price, infant care: $461.55Weekly median price, toddler care: $408.50Weekly median price, preschool care: $310.00DelawareFederal subsidies per resident child: $1,308.53Resident children under 5: 54,058Total federal subsidies: $70,736,572Weekly median price, infant care: $280.28Weekly median price, toddler care: $199.21Weekly median price, preschool care: $210.26MichiganFederal subsidies per resident child: $1,300.33Resident children under 5: 536,805Total federal subsidies: $698,023,298Weekly median price, infant care: $173.20Weekly median price, toddler care: $173.20Weekly median price, preschool care: $155.65IdahoFederal subsidies per resident child: $1,287.86Resident children under 5: 111,816Total federal subsidies: $144,003,566Weekly median price, infant care: $166.41Weekly median price, toddler care: $154.45Weekly median price, preschool care: $140.26New JerseyFederal subsidies per resident child: $1,282.96Resident children under 5: 513,333Total federal subsidies: $658,584,991Weekly median price, infant care: $313.73Weekly median price, toddler care: $302.99Weekly median price, preschool care: $302.99ArkansasFederal subsidies per resident child: $1,247.05Resident children under 5: 177,765Total federal subsidies: $221,682,300Weekly median price, infant care: NAWeekly median price, toddler care: NAWeekly median price, preschool care: NALouisianaFederal subsidies per resident child: $1,234.15Resident children under 5: 270,937Total federal subsidies: $334,377,637Weekly median price, infant care: $153.33Weekly median price, toddler care: $147.27Weekly median price, preschool care: $140.89VermontFederal subsidies per resident child: $1,187.22Resident children under 5: 27,875Total federal subsidies: $33,093,721Weekly median price, infant care: NAWeekly median price, toddler care: NAWeekly median price, preschool care: NAOklahomaFederal subsidies per resident child: $1,070.86Resident children under 5: 240,173Total federal subsidies: $257,190,682Weekly median price, infant care: $215.46Weekly median price, toddler care: $186.45Weekly median price, preschool care: $186.45Hawai‘iFederal subsidies per resident child: $1,037.10Resident children under 5: 78,927Total federal subsidies: $81,855,243Weekly median price, infant care: $365.77Weekly median price, toddler care: $263.08Weekly median price, preschool care: $263.08AlabamaFederal subsidies per resident child: $1,021.00Resident children under 5: 284,064Total federal subsidies: $290,028,771Weekly median price, infant care: $136.01Weekly median price, toddler care: $134.35Weekly median price, preschool care: $125.60GeorgiaFederal subsidies per resident child: $1,007.30Resident children under 5: 621,126Total federal subsidies: $625,660,993Weekly median price, infant care: $205.00Weekly median price, toddler care: $187.80Weekly median price, preschool care: $179.00MississippiFederal subsidies per resident child: $1,004.25Resident children under 5: 169,303Total federal subsidies: $170,022,469Weekly median price, infant care: $118.68Weekly median price, toddler care: $108.02Weekly median price, preschool care: $108.02FloridaFederal subsidies per resident child: $983.38Resident children under 5: 1,101,350Total federal subsidies: $1,083,048,050Weekly median price, infant care: $225.00Weekly median price, toddler care: $180.00Weekly median price, preschool care: $165.00ConnecticutFederal subsidies per resident child: $967.03Resident children under 5: 178,453Total federal subsidies: $172,569,544Weekly median price, infant care: $350.00Weekly median price, toddler care: $350.00Weekly median price, preschool care: $285.00MaineFederal subsidies per resident child: $962.89Resident children under 5: 61,018Total federal subsidies: $58,753,751Weekly median price, infant care: $230.00Weekly median price, toddler care: $213.33Weekly median price, preschool care: $194.00WashingtonFederal subsidies per resident child: $959.66Resident children under 5: 421,722Total federal subsidies: $404,708,430Weekly median price, infant care: $357.31Weekly median price, toddler care: $249.06Weekly median price, preschool care: $249.06MontanaFederal subsidies per resident child: $956.68Resident children under 5: 57,024Total federal subsidies: $54,553,556Weekly median price, infant care: $220.81Weekly median price, toddler care: $230.06Weekly median price, preschool care: $197.31Rhode IslandFederal subsidies per resident child: $949.44Resident children under 5: 51,955Total federal subsidies: $49,328,142Weekly median price, infant care: $289.59Weekly median price, toddler care: $279.20Weekly median price, preschool care: $245.26IowaFederal subsidies per resident child: $921.33Resident children under 5: 180,010Total federal subsidies: $165,849,363Weekly median price, infant care: $165.98Weekly median price, toddler care: $143.02Weekly median price, preschool care: $143.02IndianaFederal subsidies per resident child: $918.42Resident children under 5: 399,031Total federal subsidies: $366,477,545Weekly median price, infant care: NAWeekly median price, toddler care: NAWeekly median price, preschool care: NAAlaskaFederal subsidies per resident child: $916.78Resident children under 5: 46,497Total federal subsidies: $42,627,462Weekly median price, infant care: $361.90Weekly median price, toddler care: $337.18Weekly median price, preschool care: $289.75North DakotaFederal subsidies per resident child: $890.47Resident children under 5: 47,844Total federal subsidies: $42,603,558Weekly median price, infant care: $213.81Weekly median price, toddler care: $194.98Weekly median price, preschool care: $181.00OregonFederal subsidies per resident child: $875.07Resident children under 5: 199,584Total federal subsidies: $174,649,784Weekly median price, infant care: $329.44Weekly median price, toddler care: $302.47Weekly median price, preschool care: $237.04South CarolinaFederal subsidies per resident child: $848.53Resident children under 5: 281,426Total federal subsidies: $238,797,466Weekly median price, infant care: $198.93Weekly median price, toddler care: $185.03Weekly median price, preschool care: $181.12TennesseeFederal subsidies per resident child: $835.30Resident children under 5: 402,215Total federal subsidies: $335,971,131Weekly median price, infant care: $211.67Weekly median price, toddler care: $146.35Weekly median price, preschool care: $146.35MissouriFederal subsidies per resident child: $828.27Resident children under 5: 349,648Total federal subsidies: $289,603,974Weekly median price, infant care: NAWeekly median price, toddler care: NAWeekly median price, preschool care: NAWisconsinFederal subsidies per resident child: $824.92Resident children under 5: 309,244Total federal subsidies: $255,101,936Weekly median price, infant care: $293.00Weekly median price, toddler care: $258.75Weekly median price, preschool care: $258.75ArizonaFederal subsidies per resident child: $820.57Resident children under 5: 393,413Total federal subsidies: $322,824,548Weekly median price, infant care: $270.00Weekly median price, toddler care: $210.00Weekly median price, preschool care: $210.00KentuckyFederal subsidies per resident child: $812.13Resident children under 5: 260,433Total federal subsidies: $211,504,429Weekly median price, infant care: $151.30Weekly median price, toddler care: $134.40Weekly median price, preschool care: $134.40WyomingFederal subsidies per resident child: $798.51Resident children under 5: 30,444Total federal subsidies: $24,309,836Weekly median price, infant care: $161.17Weekly median price, toddler care: $155.62Weekly median price, preschool care: $155.62PennsylvaniaFederal subsidies per resident child: $793.10Resident children under 5: 668,734Total federal subsidies: $530,372,101Weekly median price, infant care: NAWeekly median price, toddler care: NAWeekly median price, preschool care: NANorth CarolinaFederal subsidies per resident child: $788.08Resident children under 5: 584,492Total federal subsidies: $460,627,170Weekly median price, infant care: $202.52Weekly median price, toddler care: $168.77Weekly median price, preschool care: $133.82UtahFederal subsidies per resident child: $785.12Resident children under 5: 228,464Total federal subsidies: $179,371,727Weekly median price, infant care: $226.27Weekly median price, toddler care: $183.87Weekly median price, preschool care: $168.06KansasFederal subsidies per resident child: $782.32Resident children under 5: 176,673Total federal subsidies: $138,214,795Weekly median price, infant care: $157.33Weekly median price, toddler care: $148.00Weekly median price, preschool care: $137.60New YorkFederal subsidies per resident child: $781.84Resident children under 5: 1,055,455Total federal subsidies: $825,191,780Weekly median price, infant care: $300.00Weekly median price, toddler care: $277.00Weekly median price, preschool care: $259.00OhioFederal subsidies per resident child: $767.78Resident children under 5: 661,196Total federal subsidies: $507,652,972Weekly median price, infant care: $295.00Weekly median price, toddler care: $265.00Weekly median price, preschool care: $232.00TexasFederal subsidies per resident child: $748.03Resident children under 5: 1,881,718Total federal subsidies: $1,407,574,435Weekly median price, infant care: $185.00Weekly median price, toddler care: $172.00Weekly median price, preschool care: $167.00ColoradoFederal subsidies per resident child: $727.51Resident children under 5: 305,063Total federal subsidies: $221,937,618Weekly median price, infant care: $377.40Weekly median price, toddler care: $325.50Weekly median price, preschool care: $276.35CaliforniaFederal subsidies per resident child: $695.28Resident children under 5: 2,118,386Total federal subsidies: $1,472,877,994Weekly median price, infant care: $379.21Weekly median price, toddler care: $236.33Weekly median price, preschool care: $224.99MarylandFederal subsidies per resident child: $693.79Resident children under 5: 349,193Total federal subsidies: $242,267,667Weekly median price, infant care: $327.39Weekly median price, toddler care: $230.78Weekly median price, preschool care: $230.78IllinoisFederal subsidies per resident child: $690.94Resident children under 5: 674,211Total federal subsidies: $465,839,492Weekly median price, infant care: $278.33Weekly median price, toddler care: $220.00Weekly median price, preschool care: $189.17NebraskaFederal subsidies per resident child: $659.58Resident children under 5: 121,107Total federal subsidies: $79,879,421Weekly median price, infant care: $243.75Weekly median price, toddler care: $226.13Weekly median price, preschool care: $205.00New HampshireFederal subsidies per resident child: $635.52Resident children under 5: 62,666Total federal subsidies: $39,825,235Weekly median price, infant care: $300.05Weekly median price, toddler care: $284.61Weekly median price, preschool care: $249.47MinnesotaFederal subsidies per resident child: $629.42Resident children under 5: 328,095Total federal subsidies: $206,510,840Weekly median price, infant care: $390.00Weekly median price, toddler care: $347.56Weekly median price, preschool care: $309.00NevadaFederal subsidies per resident child: $564.24Resident children under 5: 172,575Total federal subsidies: $97,374,354Weekly median price, infant care: $275.63Weekly median price, toddler care: $240.47Weekly median price, preschool care: $229.27VirginiaFederal subsidies per resident child: $546.17Resident children under 5: 481,682Total federal subsidies: $263,081,360Weekly median price, infant care: $246.72Weekly median price, toddler care: $194.52Weekly median price, preschool care: $186.75South DakotaFederal subsidies per resident child: $481.98Resident children under 5: 57,246Total federal subsidies: $27,591,155Weekly median price, infant care: $150.00Weekly median price, toddler care: $150.00Weekly median price, preschool care: $136.40Data and MethodologyFederal subsidy expenditure data for the duration of fiscal year 2022 comes from the federal government’s Office of Child Care. Data includes total expenditures (which may include leftover monies from previous award years) across several intent categories for childcare, including staff training, program quality, and more. Median weekly childcare costs come from the Department of Labor’s National Database of Childcare Prices. Population data for children under age five in each state comes from the U.S. Census Bureau 1-Year American Community Survey for calendar year 2022.This story was produced by SmartAsset and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	Alleman High School students volunteer during annual Day of Service School leaders said the day gives students the opportunity to learn new skills and have fun outside the classroom.
	$100 national park fee: What visitors need to know $100 national park fee: What visitors need to knowThe landscape of American travel is shifting with a new policy targeting international visitors. On Jan. 1, 2026, the Department of the Interior implemented Trump's $100 fee for nonresidents to some national parks, a move that drastically alters the cost of visiting America's most iconic landscapes for foreign visitors.This "Americans First" initiative is one of the most substantial changes to the National Park Service (NPS) fee structure in decades. While U.S. residents continue to enjoy standard pricing, international tourists now face surcharges at the country’s most popular destinations. If you are planning a trip to major destinations such as Yosemite or the Grand Canyon, understanding these new charges is essential to avoid shock at the entrance gate.Outwander.com breaks down what visitors need to know.The New 2026 Fee Structure GuidelinesThe core of the new policy is a two-tiered pricing system designed to prioritize U.S. residents while generating revenue from international tourism. The changes apply specifically to visitors who cannot prove U.S. residency or citizenship.The $100 Surcharge ExplainedPreviously, entrance fees were typically charged per vehicle (usually $35). Under the new rules, international visitors 16 and older must pay a $100 per person surcharge on top of the standard vehicle entry fee.For example, a family of four international tourists visiting the Grand Canyon previously paid a flat $35 vehicle fee. Today, that same family would pay the $35 vehicle fee plus $400 in individual surcharges, totaling $435 for a single visit. Ouch!The Trump administration stated clearly that the goal is to ensure American families come first, with foreign visitors contributing a "fair share" toward the maintenance of these protected lands.The Nonresident Annual PassThe standard "America the Beautiful" annual pass, which grants access to all federal recreation lands, remains $80 for U.S. residents. However, the price for international visitors has more than tripled to $250.Which Parks Are Affected?Not every park in the National Park System is subject to the new surcharge. The administration has targeted the 11 most-visited and iconic parks where overcrowding and maintenance backlogs are most acute.The $100 fee applies to the following locations:Acadia National Park (Maine)Bryce Canyon National Park (Utah)Everglades National Park (Florida)Glacier National Park (Montana)Grand Canyon National Park (Arizona)Grand Teton National Park (Wyoming)Rocky Mountain National Park (Colorado)Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Parks (California)Yellowstone National Park (Wyoming/Montana/Idaho)Yosemite National Park (California)Zion National Park (Utah)Visitors to lesser-known parks or national monuments generally do not face the $100 surcharge, though the $250 annual pass requirement for broad access remains in effect across the system.Enforcement: Who Has to Pay?Confusion regarding who qualifies as a "nonresident" has been a primary concern for travelers. The Department of the Interior has clarified that the surcharge is strictly for tourists visiting from abroad.U.S. Citizens and Permanent Residents: Utilize standard fees ($35/vehicle or $80/year).Foreign Residents Living in the U.S.: Exempt from the surcharge if they can validly prove residence (e.g., a U.S. driver’s license or state ID).International Tourists: Must pay the surcharge or buy the higher-tier annual pass.Strict ID ChecksTo enforce this, park rangers are now required to check identification at entrance stations for the 11 affected parks. American residents must present a government-issued photo ID (such as a driver's license) to claim the lower rate. Failure to produce a U.S. ID will result in the visitor being categorized as a nonresident and charged the higher fee.Changes to Fee-Free DaysAnother significant shift involves the traditional "fee-free days" when entrance fees are waived for all visitors. Moving forward, these days have been rebranded as "Patriotic Fee-Free Days" and are exclusively available to U.S. residents.The calendar of free days has also been adjusted to align with the current administration's priorities:Removed: Martin Luther King Jr. Day and Juneteenth.Added: Flag Day (June 14), which coincides with President Trump’s birthday, and Constitution Day (Sept. 17).Retained: Veterans Day and the NPS Birthday (Aug. 25).International tourists are no longer eligible for free entry on these dates and must pay full price regardless of the holiday.Why the Fee Was ImplementedThe administration has cited two primary drivers for the new policy: addressing the immense maintenance backlog and managing overcrowding.The NPS has faced billions of dollars in deferred maintenance for years, from crumbling roads to aging wastewater systems. Budget proposals suggest the surcharge could generate over $90 million annually. This revenue is earmarked directly for facility upgrades and critical infrastructure repairs that have been delayed due to budget cuts.Additionally, the rhetoric surrounding the move emphasizes an "America First" approach to natural resources, aiming to reduce congestion for tax-paying citizens by pricing out a segment of international demand.Impact on International TravelThe tourism industry has reacted with concern regarding the potential economic fallout. In 2024 alone, U.S. national parks welcomed over 331 million visitors, a significant portion of whom were international travelers contributing to local economies through hotels, dining, and tours.The United States has seen record tourism numbers recently, but industry experts warn that pricing a family visit at over $400 could deter middle-class international travelers. Tour operators in gateway communities near Yosemite and Zion are already reporting cancellations and expressing concern that the "unwelcoming" message of the fees may hurt local businesses that rely on foreign spending.Actionable Tips for TravelersIf you are an international visitor planning a trip to a U.S. national park in 2026, here is how to navigate the new system:Do The Math: If you plan to visit more than two of the 11 major parks, the $250 Nonresident Annual Pass is significantly cheaper than paying the $100 surcharge at each location.Carry Proper ID: If you are a foreign national living in the U.S., you must carry your U.S. driver's license or state ID. A passport from your home country will default you to the tourist rate.Buy Online: To minimize delays at entrance gates where rangers are checking IDs, purchase your digital pass in advance through the official Recreation.gov portal.Explore Other Parks: Remember that over 400 national park sites exist. Consider visiting parks not on the "list of 11," such as Olympic National Park or Great Smoky Mountains, to avoid the surcharge (though the annual pass price increase still applies for general entry).While the fees are steep, the funds are legally bound to support the parks. Visitors can at least take solace that their higher entry costs are contributing directly to the preservation of these spectacular landscapes for future generations.This story was produced by outwander.com and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	Better Business Bureau seeks nominations for Torch Awards for Business Ethics The Better Business Bureau (BBB) serving Greater Iowa has announced that nominations and applications are now officially open for the 2026 Torch Awards for Business Ethics, a news release says. This award recognizes local companies that display an outstanding level of integrity and an unwavering commitment to ethical business practices. To celebrate the finalists and [...]
	Few more frosty, cold days followed by a warming trend January temperatures are now below average, and we'll close out the month colder and drier than average. So far this January, only 1.7" of snow has accumulated in the Quad Cities. A little more snow is on the way Sunday. Here's your full 7-day forecast.
	Two new playgrounds will be coming to Davenport elementary and preschool schools Children's Village West and Jefferson Elementary School in Davenport will receive new playgrounds in the coming years.
	Colona changes format of committee meetings; will hold competition for new logo, slogan Aldermen on Monday approved a six-month trial period for committee of the whole meetings.
	Geneseo moves closer to phosphorus removal at wastewater treatment plant The current cost estimate for the project is $12.8 million, down from $13.9 million.
	Cesar Toscano: Introducing Cesar in the Classroom and looking for classrooms to visit Education Reporter Cesar Toscano invites educators to collaborate with Quad-City Times/Dispatch Argus on classroom visits.
	The Bellevue War This is Roald Tweet on Rock Island.If the Guinness Book of World Records had been around in 1840, the good citizens of Bellevue, Iowa would certainly have…
	Senegal and Morocco fined and players banned after African Cup final chaos Africa's soccer body issued fines worth more than $1 million and banned Senegal's coach and Senegalese and Morocco players Wednesday following a shambolic African Cup soccer final this month.
	Sarah Smith named director of Galesburg Tourism & Visitors Bureau Sarah Smith has been named director of the Galesburg Tourism & Visitors Bureau (GTVB) Board. According to a release, Smith will lead efforts to promote the Galesburg area and advance tourism for economic growth. Smith brings extensive experience in strategic marketing, communications and community-centered storytelling across various industries. She most recently led tourism marketing for [...]
	Caregivers for the elderly could lose wage protections under Trump proposal The Labor Department has proposed rescinding an Obama-era rule that gave home care workers the right to overtime pay and other wage protections. The administration says the rule made care too costly.
	'Philadelphia,' 'Clueless,' 'The Karate Kid' added to the National Film Registry Every year, the National Film Registry adds 25 films to its collection to be preserved for posterity. Selections for 2025 ranges from 'The Thing' to 'White Christmas'
	Trump has sued universities for billions. Here's what the strategy tells us Each deal between colleges and the administration is unique, but they have common goals: altering the culture at powerful institutions and making their policies more aligned with President Trump's.
	Starmer and Xi call for deeper UK-China ties as Trump shakes up global relations British Prime Minister Keir Starmer and Chinese leader Xi Jinping in Beijing called for a "comprehensive strategic partnership" to deepen ties amid global uncertainty.
	Iowa Senate to amend House bill banning eminent domain for carbon capture pipelines DES MOINES, Iowa -- A House-passed bill banning the use of eminent domain for carbon capture pipelines won't move forward in its current form in the Senate. Last week, the Iowa House passed HF 2104 64 to 28, prohibiting hazardous liquid pipeline companies from using eminent domain to construct pipelines. On Tuesday morning, a Senate [...]
Wednesday, January 28th, 2026
	Potential plans for Centennial Bridge presented at public input session Another public information session was held on the possible reconstruction of the Centennial Bridge.
	How the Minneapolis killings look from Trump country The shooting of Alex Pretti and Renee Macklin Good by federal agents in Minneapolis have enraged many people across the country. NPR wanted to know what supporters of President Trump's immigration policy think about the shootings.
	U.S. life expectancy hits a new high, as deaths from overdoses and COVID fall An American born in 2024 can expect to live to be 79, on average. But people in other wealthy countries can expect to live longer.
	Illinois Congressman urges new federal tax credit for first-time homebuyers U.S. Rep. Raja Krishnamoorthi (D-IL), who represents the 8th Congressional District in the Chicago area, discussed his proposed First Home Affordability Act on Wednesday at a roundtable in Moline Township Hall.
	Illinois cities added to trucking video game Some of the new additions to American Truck Simulator include Peoria and Bloomington.
	Crews respond to Rock Island apartment fire No injuries were reported following a fire on the 1800 block of 30th Street in Rock Island, but 40 people have been displaced.
	Davenport community calling for city council to take a stand against ICE The city council unanimously passed an issue paper which would prevent the state from taking control of local law enforcement.
	Iowa Coalition Against Sexual Assault merging with Iowa Coalition Against Domestic Violence The news comes the same day that IowaCASA announced it would be dissolving.
	State transportation officials continue gathering public feedback on Centennial Bridge's future The U.S. 67 (Centennial Bridge) Corridor Project is a long-term plan formed by state transportation officials to address the bridge's aging infrastructure.
	Davenport residents sentenced to federal prison for selling cocaine in QC area Two Davenport residents were sentenced to federal prison on Wednesday for conspiracy to distribute a controlled substance and distribution of a mixture and substance containing cocaine base, according to a news release from the U. S. Attorney's Office - Southern District of Iowa. According to public court documents and evidence presented at sentencing, Lloyd Demico [...]
	How Moline is working to solve their affordable housing problem Much like the rest of the country, the Quad Cities is in the midst of an affordable housing crisis. Illinois Representative Raja Krishnamoorthi (D) hosted a roundtable in Moline to speak about the crisis with members of the local government and community, and Moline officials said they have laid the groundwork that could help provide [...]
	QC residents weigh in on the future of the US 67 (Centennial Bridge) Corridor Project Plans for changing or replacing the Centennial Bridge between Rock Island and Davenport are taking a new step. The Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) has designed five alternative plans for the Centennial Bridge, and the public has the opportunity to give input on the designs. Our Quad Cities News reporter Gavin Waidelich was at an [...]
	Officials: Cambridge restaurant no longer closing A Cambridge Mexican restaurant won’t be closing after all as it was sold to new management.

Thursday, January 29th, 2026

Wednesday, January 28th, 2026