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

Friday, April 10th, 2026
	Hip-hop pioneer Afrika Bambaataa dies at age 68 Afrika Bambaataa, a man widely considered one of the main pioneers of hip-hop, died in Pennsylvania of prostate cancer on Thursday, according to his lawyer.
	Well-timed bets on Polymarket tied to the Iran war draw calls for investigations from lawmakers Calls are increasing inside Congress for investigations into the prediction market platform Polymarket after the latest instance where groups of anonymous traders made strategic, well-timed bets on a major geopolitical event hours before it occurred.
	Immigration board denies Mahmoud Khalil's appeal The Board of Immigration Appeals has denied Mahmoud Khalil's latest attempt to dismiss his deportation case. This decision brings the Palestinian activist one step closer to possible expulsion.
	Cuban President Miguel Díaz-Canel tells NBC News that he will not step down Cuban President Miguel Díaz-Canel has told NBC News' Meet the Press that he would not step down in his first interview with a U.S. network.
Thursday, April 9th, 2026
	Get your motor running at the QC Family Motorcycle Expo Support the next generation of mechanics, meet fellow motorcycle enthusiasts and more! Arthur Panick spoke with Our Quad Cities News about the upcoming QC Family Motorcycle Expo. For more information, click here.
	Local athletes compete in Jesse Day relays The rain didn’t stop athletes from hitting the track at Brady Street Stadium for the 91st annual Jesse Day Invitational.
	River Bandits beat Timber Rattlers 11-1 The Quad Cities River Bandits pick up their first win of the season in game 3 against Wisconsin Timber Rattlers 11-1.
	Davenport native Divine Bourrage transfers to Illinois from LSU Divine Bourrage has found her new home at Illinois after entering the transfer portal following her first year at LSU.
	I-80 East entrance ramp blocked for towing operation, roadway reopened The ramp from U.S. 61 South was blocked while a towing operation was in progress, according to Iowa 511.
	4th Street conversion construction continues in Davenport Construction season is upon us and that means work is continuing on the 4th Street construction project in Davenport. Work started late last year along the road, and now people will see traffic disruptions continue throughout the rest of this year. Currently, there are two sections being worked on - Telegraph Road to Pine Street [...]
	Traffic Alert: Work to impact Geneseo middle and high school traffic Work will be done at the intersection of Ogden Avenue and State Street after the contractor discovered infrastructure issues impacting water and sewer services to the high school, according to a media release.
	The Heart of the Story: A fishy mission Our Quad Cities News is partnering with award-winning journalist Gary Metivier for The Heart of the Story. Each week, Gary showcases inspiring stories of everyday people doing cool stuff, enjoying their hobbies and living life to the fullest. Stories that feature the best of the human condition. A Quad-City hatchery helps ensure local waterways stay [...]
	QCA poverty convention pinpoints affordable housing as the 'problem' Hundreds of people gathered at the fourth-annual 'Rooting Out Poverty' conference on Thursday at the Waterfront Convention Center. Data shared at the event, put on by Project NOW, pinpoints housing insecurity in Illinois as the primary issue to address. "I can't look at the numbers, I can't know the data, see the realities around town, [...]
	Traffic Alert: I-80 East entrance ramp blocked for towing operation The ramp from U.S. 61 South is blocked while a towing operation is in progress, according to Iowa 511.
	Park View man charged with stalking According to the Scott County Sheriff's Office, Chad Metcalf left a GPS tracking device on a vehicle.
	Delegation going to D.C. to ask for Galesburg infrastructure funding The Knox County Area Partnership wants to get funding for three main projects, with a trip planned for next week.
	Davenport activates 3 new red-light cameras The new cameras are active as of April 9, but there will be a 30-day warning period before citations are issued. After that, violations will carry a $100 fine.
	Rock Island Deputy Chief of Police retiring for new role with Coal Valley After leaving Rock Island, Jamie Morris will become Coal Valley's new chief of police.
	Parkview man charged with two counts of stalking A Parkview man has been charged with stalking. According to a release from the Scott County Sheriff's Office, the Scott Emergency Communication Center received a call March 25 at approximately 4:06 p.m. from a Scott County resident that he found a GPS tracking device on his and his girlfriend's car. The Scott County Sheriff's Office [...]
	Traffic Alert: Part of 16th Avenue to close for lead service line replacement project A section of 16th Avenue will be closed for a lead service line replacement project.
	Madigan’s high-powered appeals team urges 7th Circuit to overturn speaker’s conviction s former Illinois House Speaker Michael Madigan approaches six months in a West Virginia federal prison, the high-profile legal team he hired to handle his appeal made long-awaited arguments Thursday, urging the longtime Democratic power broker’s conviction on bribery and other corruption charges be overturned.
	Hop to the LeClaire Spring Shop Hop this weekend The event runs from 10 a.m. through 4 p.m. on Saturday.
	4th Annual G-Ales-Burg Fest to be held for a good cause The 4th Annual G-Ales-Burg Fest is happening Saturday to benefit The Vascular Anomalies Alliance.
	Man charged with stalking after GPS tracking device found on car, deputies say A man has been charged with stalking after a GPS tracking device was found on a car.
	Update on severe weather chances next week While we have been seeing a lot of rain through the start of this month, some of it severe, we have another chance next week. So far this year we have already received 11 confirmed tornadoes in our area from storms, 3 on the Iowa side of the river, and 8 on the Illinois side. [...]
	Mother-daughter duo among QC Restaurant Week service stars A mother-daughter duo was served a special surprise Thursday as part of QC Restaurant Week.
	Rock Island nonprofit gives books to more than 200 students Each student was given three new books to take home, while teachers received classroom copies to encourage reading throughout the year.
	QC Restaurant Week continues with deals, special menus from more than 90 restaurants You have until Sunday, April 12, to dine out at a local restaurant for a chance to win gift cards and prizes! Here's how to sign up for free.
	CropGPT?: Farmers now have their own AI chatbot It’s called CropWizard and was developed by the University of Illinois. Farmers can ask questions about pests, diseases, or crop management and receive research-based answers.
	Nearly 2,500 people without power in Rock Island News 8 has reached out to MidAmerican energy for details on what caused the outage.
	Downtown Moline given River Edge Redevelopment Zone designation The designation unlocks tax incentives aimed at boosting development along the Mississippi River corridor.
	Second Saturday returns with free admission, activities at the Figge The facility will host its next free Second Saturday on April 11, offering all‑day admission and special activities including yoga, a scavenger hunt and themed programming tied to abstract art.
	Traffic Alert: Part of alley behind East 8th Street to close The alley behind 110 East 8th Street will be closed to through traffic on Friday.
	'Bleed Cubbie blue' \| Cubs fans tie the knot on opening day at Galesburg Cubs bar Chris and Nancy McKillip met at Duffy's five years ago while watching a Cubs game. So what better way to kick off their marriage than at that same spot?!
	Over 2400 without power in Rock Island Our Quad Cities News is on scene near Hyvee on 18th Avenue in Rock Island where it appears a car clipped a utility pole around five p.m. MidAmerican Energy Company reports 2457 people are without power in Rock Island as of 5:45 p.m. Our crew saw live power lines down near Hyvee and Rudy's Tacos. [...]
	Homelessness is bigger than the count — and growing, Quad Cities leaders say Leaders and advocates from across the Quad Cities gathered Thursday to take a closer look at homelessness — and the challenges that often go unseen.
	Rock Island Academy students gifted with free books The books were gifted by nonprofit "Planting Seeds 4 a better Future" as part of their mission to improve childhood literacy.
	Cook Political Report shifts Iowa governor’s race to tossup Cook Political Report changes rating of Iowa governor's race to "tossup."
	3 strikes and you’re in: Iowa eyes mandatory 20-year sentences Iowa is on the verge of one of the toughest repeat-offender laws in the country.
	Rock Island Deputy Police Chief Jim Morris sworn in as new Coal Valley Police Chief Rock Island Deputy Police Chief Jim Morris has been sworn in as the new Police Chief of the Village of Coal Valley and will be retiring from Rock Island effective April 17.
	Winter shelter demand rising in the Quad Cities More than 250 people used Project NOW’s winter shelter this season, and leaders say resources still aren’t keeping up with demand.
	More April showers through next week With another Thursday comes another update to the drought monitor and from the rain we have been getting through the past week, things are finally improving. Most of the area is under dry drought conditions, the lowest level with still more rain on the way through the next week. We are going to get a [...]
	Thanks to everyone who donated to WQAD's food drive! All the food collected will be given out to local food pantries, along with $400 in monetary donations.
	Planting Books gives free books to Rock Island Academy students First through third graders at Rock Island Academy were surprised with brand new books on Thursday. It's part of a donation from Planting Books - Seeds 4 a Better Future, an organization started by Tamara Felden. Students each received three books packaged with ribbon, an addition that Felden says is important. "We include a letter [...]
	State education officials present $10.9B budget request to fund public schools The request includes $300 million in new spending for schools, plus $50 million for property tax relief grants.
	Mother-daughter duo on Celebrate Belle Riverboat honored with Restaurant Services Star Brandy and Kyrstin Hall were recognized for their love of their work and helping customers have amazing experiences aboard the cruise.
	Pair of Chicago Cubs superfans tie the knot at Cubs bar on opening day Chris and Nancy McKillip joined The Current to talk about their storybook romance and how a magical day came to be.
	Why Pokemon cards are one of the hottest speculative booms right now If you collected Pokemon cards as a kid, here's hoping you held onto them. The Japanese franchise has been popular for decades, but it's become the latest speculative boom.
	Homelessness causes and possible solutions addressed at QC conference Homelessness is a major issue in the Quad Cities, and was a major topic Thursday, April 9 as part of the 4th-annual Rooting Out Poverty Conference, presented by Project NOW.
	Crime Stoppers: Man wanted by Iowa Department of Corrections for escape Charles Singleton III, 24, is wanted by the Iowa Department of Corrections High Risk Unit for escape on a felony conviction for theft.
	Crime Stoppers: Extension cords stolen from lot of Moline business The person was wearing a baseball cap, black hoodie, green pants and boots. Police said the person also had a large black backpack.
	Crime Stoppers: Man wanted by East Moline police for armed robbery Jordan Velasquez, 21, is wanted by the East Moline Police Department for armed robbery.
	Quad Cities Restaurant Week runs through Sunday Katrina Keuning with Visit Quad Cities joined The Current to share how many restaurants are participating and the impact it has for our local businesses.
	Rock Island deputy chief of police to retire Deputy Chief of Police Jamie Morris is set to retire from the Rock Island Police Department.
	See which bills Gov. Kim Reynolds signed into law on Thursday Gov. Reynolds signed 25 bills into law on Thursday, covering topics ranging from child care assistance to the disposition of human remains.
	Moline begins lead service line replacement project Work to replace lead service lines in Moline means a road through the city must temporarily close. Moline will start work on a lead service line replacement (LSLR) project on Friday, April 10 and there will be a temporary road closure along 16th Avenue from the Rock Island border to 7th Street. The closure is [...]
	Police claim Davenport woman had marijuana, prescription drugs in system during fatal crash Carri Neff, 37, tested positive for marijuana and several prescription drugs in her system at the time of fatal crash.
	Melania Trump denies close ties to Jeffrey Epstein in rare public statement The first lady made a rare public statement on Thursday saying she was not friends with the late sex offender. She also said Epstein did not introduce her to President Donald Trump.
	Deputy Chief Jamie Morris retires from Rock Island Police Department Deputy Chief of Police Jamie Morris is retiring from the Rock Island Police Department after accepting a job as chief of police with the Village of Coal Valley. Morris was hired as a police officer by the City of Rock Island on Dec. 11, 2000. He has worked in a variety of roles in the [...]
	Gov. Reynolds signs child care assistance bill into law The measure previously passed unanimously in the Senate and overwhelmingly in the House.
	Rock Island Deputy Chief of Police retiring for new role with Coal Valley After leaving Rock Island, Jamie Morris will become Coal Valley's new chief of police.
	Cool Doggie Den opens in Colona offering private rental space for dogs The Cool Doggie Den in Colona is the newest private, indoor center for dogs.
	Davenport adds red-light cameras at three intersections The new red-light cameras add to five existing red-light camera locations in Davenport that ticket motorists for running red lights.
	Children's advocacy group establishes endowment with Moline Regional Community Foundation The Rock Island County Children’s Advocacy Center (RICCAC) has taken steps to ensure it will be able to continue its mission of reducing trauma to children. The center established a permanent endowment fund with Moline Regional Community Foundation (MRCF) to ensure long-term support for its mission to reduce trauma to children through coordinated, multidisciplinary abuse [...]
	How an ancient resin traded for centuries got snarled up by the Iran war It's not just energy supplies that have been disrupted by the Iran war. It's also hitting frankincense, a commodity that's been defining trade routes in the Middle East for thousands of years.
	Davenport activates 3 new red-light cameras The new cameras are active as of April 9, but there will be a 30-day warning period before citations are issued. After that, violations will carry a $100 fine.
	Backwater Gamblers concerned with Illinois plans for dam changes on Rock River The nonprofit organization is concerned about options the Illinois Department of Natural Resources (DNR) is considering for the Sears and Steel Dams.
	Muscatine man sentenced to 15 years in prison for transporting child sex abuse materials He had pleaded guilty to a single count in December and was sentenced on Tuesday.
	Learn about quilting, fiber arts at Bettendorf Public Library An award winning quilter is sharing what she’s learned after decades of working as a fiber artist at a free presentation at the Bettendorf Public Library. Diane Murtha will share wisdom she gained from 50+ years as a fiber artist on Saturday, April 25 from 2 – 3 p.m. at the Bettendorf Public Library, 2950 [...]
	The most memorable moon movies aren't even about space While marveling at Artemis II's mission, NPR's film critic went down a rabbit hole about moon-themed movies. Most have nothing to do with space.
	New Asian American convenience store opening Friday in Davenport Chill Stop QC is inviting the public to its grand opening to their Asian American convenience store on Friday.
	House fire in Lowden destroys home, occupants escape Crews responded to a house fire Thursday morning in Lowden. The home was destroyed, but all occupants escaped safely.
	Davenport adds more red light cameras Davenport is expanding its Automated Traffic Enforcement (ATE) program with several new red light cameras at high traffic intersections in the city. A news release from the city says the new cameras add to Davenport’s existing ATE efforts and reflect the City’s commitment to preventing serious accidents. The new camera locations were chosen based on [...]
	Red light cameras coming to 3 busy Davenport intersections New red light cameras are coming to three busy Davenport intersections.
	Traffic Alert: Illinois 40 bridge to be replaced at I-80 in Bureau County The Illinois Department of Transportation is replacing the Illinois 40 bridge over I-80 in Bureau County.
	How aquatic therapy can help patients at Hammond-Henry Hospital Physical and occupational therapy can come in many forms, including water.
	Rental fee limits, detention center regulations among bills to pass Illinois House After a short spring break, House lawmakers returned this week to pass dozens of bills out of the chamber.
	What draws people into cults? A new book tracks the journeys of two followers Harrison Hill's book The Oracle's Daughter is a story about the terror of losing the self — but it's also, gratifyingly, a story about finding the way back to it.
	Your complete guide to buying an electric vehicle in 2026: What US consumers need to know Your complete guide to buying an electric vehicle in 2026: What US consumers need to knowElectric vehicles (EVs) are here to stay, and 2026 is shaping up to be one of the most interesting years for the EV market yet. With expanding model choices, evolving incentives for drivers, and changing federal policy, choosing the right EV isn’t just about selecting a car. It’s about understanding the costs, charging options, and long-term value ina shifting landscape.The General has pulled together a comprehensive guide to the EV market, analyzing market trends and data across sources including Kelley Blue Book, the Department of Energy, and Kiplinger. Whether you're a first-time EV shopper or looking to make a change, here’s what to know before signing on the dotted line.The State of the EV Market in 2026Electric vehicles are rapidly expanding their footprint globally. Based on a mid-year BloombergNEF press release summarizing data from its annual Electric Vehicle Outlook, global EV and plug-in hybrid sales were on track for a record year with nearly 22 million units—up roughly 25% from 2024. Even as growth seemingly slowed in some major markets, China has dominated the rollout of these cars, accounting for nearly two-thirds of global EV sales.Europe has been following closely behind with significant volume, but the United States experienced a slowdown, with only around 7% of global EV sales in 2025. While the exact causes are still emerging, early analysis suggests that changes in U.S. policy and incentives may be a key factor.These mixed signals mean that the EV market in 2026 remains vibrant, but more challenging to navigate for buyers seeking value.Some key industry developments that are likely shaping the 2026 market include:Model availability and diversification continue to expand, with many traditional automakers breaking into the EV industry.EVs are accounting for an increasing slice of new car sales in global powerhouses, including Europe and China.Production and supply chain shifts, including battery manufacturing investments, are shaping pricing and availability.Despite temporary slowdowns in certain markets, it’s clear that the electric vehicle market is here to stay on a global scale.Understanding EV Costs in 2026Electric vehicle pricing isn’t just about the sticker price. As with any vehicle, you’ll also want to consider total cost of ownership, incentives, and operating costs. New EVs typically carry a higher upfront price compared to a standard gasoline vehicle. Data from Kelley Blue Book shows that the average transaction price for an electric vehicle in August 2025 was $57,245, compared to $49,077 for all cars.The technology used in EVs, specifically the powerful batteries that keep the car moving, is the primary factor in higher upfront prices. Even after incentives, which were arguably more present in the early years of the industry, many new EVs still cost more than the average gas-powered car. This gap may narrow as batteries and technology improve, lowering prices by enabling manufacturers to achieve greater scale.Purchase price and incentives aren’t everything. The total cost of ownership is the factor that can make a major difference in the long run. Assessing all costs related to owning and using a car throughout its life, there are three main areas where EVs may lower costs over time:Fuel Savings: EV charging costs are generally much lower than gasoline costs per mile driven.Maintenance Costs: EVs typically have fewer moving parts than gas cars, meaning no oil changes, spark plug replacements, or complex transmissions that require service.Insurance Variations: Some EVs may carry higher insurance premiums, but the gap may begin to narrow as insurers adjust to EV costs.However, as outlined by EV marketplace provider Motor Watt, the total cost of ownership may not shift in favor of EVs until the sixth year of ownership on average. This means that for the first six years, you are likely to be paying higher costs than a gas car.Federal and State Incentives for EVsOne of the main reasons people chose electric vehicles in recent years was the incentives offered by federal and state governments. That’s changing in 2026. .Federal Tax CreditsFor much of the early 2020s, federal tax credits of up to $7,500 helped to offset high EV sticker prices. This tax credit expired on September 30, 2025 under the One Big Beautiful Bill Act. This means buyers can no longer claim the federal EV tax credit. The future of other existing federal incentives, such as charger credits, is unclear, but expiration dates and limits will likely apply. A federal tax credit for home EV chargers—covering up to 30% of costs (capped at $1,000)—is set to expire on June 30, 2026, also as a result of the One Big Beautiful Bill Act.State and Local IncentivesEven with some federal credits phased out, state, local, and utility incentives can remain a valuable way to save. Some common examples include:Point-of-sale rebatesIncome-based incentivesHOV lane accessUtility-sponsored charger rebatesThe U.S. Department of Energy maintains a comprehensive database of all available incentives by state; check your state’s current incentives so you don’t miss potential savings. California residents, for example, may qualify for rebates worth several thousand dollars as part of the state’s Clean Vehicle Rebate Project, and other states offer rebates or credits for charger installation.Understanding EV Range and Real-World PerformanceRange—often based on EPA estimates—is a key factor when deciding if an EV is right for you. Real-world range can vary based on several factors, including driving speed, weather and temperature, terrain, use of HVAC systems, and more. Early EVs had a very limited range, but recent model years are starting to push longer ranges.Per the Department of Energy’s Alternative Fuels Data Center highlight report, most all-electric vehicles can go about 110 to 300 miles on a single charge and plug-in hybrid EVs can go 15 to 60 miles on battery power alone. This means that most drivers can use EVs for daily commuting, where mileage typically doesn’t exceed 30 to 50 miles per day, especially if they have a home charger. Longer trips may still require some planning around public fast chargers, but the infrastructure is set to grow rapidly throughout 2026.Charging Infrastructure: Home and Public OptionsCharging is a key part of owning an EV and one of the factors behind the industry’s growth. A combination of both home charging solutions and public charging networks has made owning an EV far more convenient. According to U.S. News and World Report, there are two home charging options available today:Level-1 (120v): These are standard outlet chargers, which are slow but sufficient for overnight top-ups to your EV.Level-2 (240v): These chargers can be ideal for home use and can provide fast charging, but installation is usually a couple hundred to a couple thousand dollars.Not having access to a home charger can make EV ownership more challenging, but it’s still possible. The public charging network around the globe is extensive. Tesla alone has 75,000 global Superchargers, and other brands such as Electrify America DC, ChargePoint, and EVgo are expanding rapidly. The federally run Alternative Fuels Data Center also maintains an active list of electric vehicle charging stations across the United States and Canada specifically, even featuring smartphone applications for quick reference.The buildout of these chargers and the broader charging network has made owning an EV more convenient by helping make EVs more practical for everyday driving.Key Considerations Before Buying an EVWith growing interest in electric vehicles and prices starting to get closer to gas-powered cars, it may feel like a good time to consider an EV. However, before making that choice, it’s important to think through a few key questions:How many miles do you drive daily?Do you need a longer driving range for highway trips?Will you need to install home charging?Do you regularly tow or need extra cargo space?These questions can help you decide if an EV or gas-powered car fits your lifestyle. You also need to take into account your budget. While it’s true that the cost gap is beginning to close, EVs can still cost more upfront. Despite having fewer moving parts and lower potential maintenance costs on average, some repairs can be expensive due to the technology involved.Before deciding to buy, you should evaluate the sticker price, installation costs for chargers, insurance differences, and fuel and maintenance savings to see if the vehicle fits your budget. Also, take into account potential warranty coverage offered (especially for batteries) and the expected depreciation of the vehicle to get a better picture of the long-term value. Kelley Blue Book offers tools to help you decide if an EV fits your lifestyle.Making the Purchase DecisionIf you’ve crunched the numbers and determined that purchasing an EV in 2026 is the right choice for you, there are some final items to consider before signing on the dotted line. First and foremost, you will need to think about whether buying or leasing the vehicle is right for you. Buying means you own the car and can keep it long term, while leasing may offer lower monthly payments and the option to upgrade after two to three years if you’re unsure about the vehicle. If you’re on a tighter budget or unsure about EVs, leasing may be more appealing.When trying to find the right EV to suit your needs, regardless of leasing or buying, you should research directly on manufacturer websites and trusted sources like Consumer Reports and Kelley Blue Book, where you can find reviews of different EVs. This will allow you to read test reviews and see owner feedback based on real-world insights, which specs alone don’t typically show.Finally, always take a test drive before purchasing a new EV. Pay attention to how the car handles, how the range estimate compares to real driving, how easy the charging app is to use (if applicable), and overall comfort and visibility. Driving dynamics for EVs can differ significantly from gas-powered cars, which is why it’s important to make sure you’re comfortable.Electrify your Next Ride with ConfidenceBuying an EV in 2026 means navigating a market with more choices, changing incentives, and new technology. Federal tax credits may no longer apply in all cases, but state or local incentives may help balance this. At the same time, lower operating costs, more vehicle options, and a growing charging network continue to make EVs appealing to drivers across the country and around the world.If you’re considering an EV, focus on evaluating the total cost of ownership, range expectations, and real-world suitability to ensure this type of vehicle is right for you. The future of driving may be increasingly electric and, with the right knowledge, you can get a jumpstart on that future.This story was produced by The General and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	710,000 fewer babies were born last year in U.S. compared with two decades ago The U.S. fertility rate continued its slide to historic levels, due to plunging teen pregnancies and far more women delaying motherhood into their 30s and 40s.
	IDOT to replace Illinois 40 bridge in Bureau County The Illinois Department of Transportation has announced the start of a major construction project in Bureau County. Work is underway to replace the Illinois 40 bridge crossing Interstate 80 in Bureau County. The current bridge will be demolished, a replacement built and lighting replaced. The bridge will be built one half at a time and [...]
	Tax season comes with a deadline. For people with disabilities, it also comes with a wall. Tax season comes with a deadline. For people with disabilities, it also comes with a wall.Every year, millions of Americans sit down to file their taxes online. It's become the default, with roughly 94% of returns now filed electronically according to a federal review of the 2025 filing season, which means for most people, tax season looks something like this: pull up a website, enter some information, hit submit. It's not anyone's favorite task, but it gets done.For the roughly 70 million Americans living with a disability, it's often not that simple.Think about what it actually takes to do almost anything online. You navigate menus, fill out forms, read instructions, respond to error messages, and confirm everything went through. Most of the time, it works. Now think about doing all of that on a website that wasn't designed to work with a screen reader, requires a mouse to get around, or has text that's too low-contrast to read clearly.Tax filing is just one example, but it's a particularly high-stakes one. These aren't hypothetical problems, and they show up on the very websites people are required to use every year.Where things standA GOBankingRates survey found that 14% of Americans would rather report for jury duty than file their taxes, which, when you think about it, says a lot about how the process feels even when everything works. For people who also have to navigate websites that weren't built with them in mind, that number makes even more sense.According to AudioEye's Digital Accessibility Index, the average government webpage contains 307 accessibility issues, one of the highest rates of any industry analyzed. When people with disabilities are navigating these sites, they may not be able to find the right form, finish a payment, or even confirm their submission went through. Government sites also ranked last on keyboard accessibility across all sectors, and 77% of pages had unclear links, making basic navigation a challenge for anyone using assistive technology.Financial services sites have similar gaps. After filing, people still need to check refund status, confirm banking details, and manage their accounts, and AudioEye found that finance sites had one of the highest rates of inaccessible forms across all industries. That matters especially right now, because the IRS is phasing out paper refund checks and pushing everyone toward electronic payments. According to CNBC, about 1.4 million filers are already experiencing delays as a result.What an accessible experience actually looks likeMost of these issues are fixable, and accessibility isn't about overhauling everything from scratch. It comes down to a few core features that, when done right, make a meaningful difference for a lot of people. In practice, this means:The entire page can be navigated using only a keyboard. Every form field, button, and link can be reached and activated without a mouse.Every image and chart has a text description. Screen readers can't interpret visuals on their own, so alt text ensures people with visual disabilities can access the same information as everyone else.Text is readable for people with low vision. Sufficient contrast between text and background means someone can actually read what's on the page without straining or guessing.Links and buttons clearly describe where they go or what they do. Rather than generic labels like "click here" or "learn more," descriptive text tells users exactly what to expect, which is critical when navigating an unfamiliar government portal or financial platform.This isn't just a tax problemTax season makes the stakes obvious because filing is mandatory and the deadline is fixed. There's no option to just skip it if a website doesn't work for you. But the same issues exist across the web, on retail sites, healthcare portals, and banking apps, and any organization with a digital presence has users who rely on assistive technology to get around.Accessibility standards like Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) exist because tools that serve the public should work for everyone who uses them, and the Department of Justice has been reinforcing that through updates to Title II of the ADA and stronger Section 508 compliance rules. For businesses, it's becoming less of a best practice and more of a baseline expectation.The organizations getting this right aren't waiting to be told to. They're building products that more people can actually use, and it turns out that's good for everyone.This story was produced by AudioEye and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	The commercial vehicle tax break business owners are missing before tax day The commercial vehicle tax break business owners are missing before tax dayMost business owners know Section 179 exists. Fewer know how favorable it became in 2025. And almost none realize that a used commercial bus qualifies for a first-year write-off that can reach the full purchase price.BusesForSale.com breaks down how Section 179 applies to commercial buses — and why the 2025 rule changes make this year’s deadline worth paying attention to. With Tax Day on April 15, here’s what fleet operators, church administrators, school transportation directors, and corporate shuttle managers need to understand before filing.What Section 179 actually doesSection 179 of the IRS tax code lets businesses deduct the full purchase price of qualifying equipment in the year it was placed in service — rather than depreciating it over five to seven years. For a business that bought a used shuttle bus or coach in 2025, that means a potential six-figure deduction on this year’s return instead of a fraction of it spread across nearly a decade.The deduction applies to both new and used vehicles, as long as the vehicle is new to your business and was placed in service by December 31 of the tax year.What changed in 2025The One Big Beautiful Bill Act, signed July 4, 2025, made two significant changes. First, it raised the total Section 179 deduction limit from $1,160,000 to $2,500,000, with a phase-out beginning at $4,000,000 in total qualifying purchases. Second, it reinstated 100% bonus depreciation for qualifying property placed in service after January 19, 2025 — reversing a planned phase-down that would have limited the deduction to 40%.For businesses that purchased equipment in Q1 2025 under the old limits, amended returns may capture the higher deduction. That is a question for a tax professional, not a filing assumption.Where buses fitVehicle weight determines how Section 179 applies, and this is where commercial buses have a significant advantage over passenger cars and light trucks.The IRS classifies vehicles by Gross Vehicle Weight Rating. Passenger-type SUVs and light trucks under 14,000 lbs face a Section 179 cap of $31,300. Vocational and commercial vehicles over 14,000 lbs — which includes the majority of school buses, transit buses, coach buses, and full-size shuttle vehicles — face no such passenger vehicle cap. A qualifying bus purchase can be written off in full, up to the $2,500,000 overall limit.Shuttle vehicles carrying more than nine passengers behind the driver’s seat are specifically categorized by the IRS as non-passenger vehicles, which removes them from the lighter-vehicle deduction caps regardless of weight.Bonus depreciation on topSection 179 and bonus depreciation can work together. The standard approach is to apply Section 179 first up to the allowable limit, then apply bonus depreciation to any remaining purchase cost basis. With 100% bonus depreciation restored for 2025, a business that exceeds its Section 179 limit can still write off the remaining cost in year one rather than carrying it forward.For a church or nonprofit purchasing a used bus for $85,000, the math is straightforward: the full purchase price may be deductible in 2025, assuming it qualifies and was placed in service before December 31.The filing requirementClaiming Section 179 requires filing Form 4562 with the tax return for the year the vehicle was placed in service. Businesses should maintain purchase invoices, financing agreements, and documentation of business use. If business use falls below 50%, recapture rules apply.What this is notThis is not tax advice. The deduction that applies to any specific vehicle purchase depends on vehicle classification, total equipment purchases for the year, taxable income, business-use percentage, and the acquisition and placed-in-service dates. Any business considering a Section 179 election should work with a qualified tax professional before filing.What it is: a deduction most commercial vehicle buyers underuse, in a year when the rules shifted significantly in their favor.Tax Day is April 15. The 2025 return is where this plays out.Data sourced from the IRS Publication 463, IRS Form 4562 Instructions, and the One Big Beautiful Bill Act (P.L. 119-21). BusesForSale.com is a U.S. marketplace for new and used buses. Consult a qualified tax professional before making filing decisions.This story was produced by BusesForSale.com and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	Atkinson Road work starts April 13 in Henry County More road work is coming to Henry County. The Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) announced that work on Atkinson Road in Henry County will start on Monday, April 13, weather permitting. The work zone is from Illinois 92 to N. 1920th Street at the north Atkinson village limits and includes the ramps at the Interstate [...]
	How a cheese sandwich at the Masters is still $1.50 in an era of price hikes The priciest concessions at the Masters, beer and wine, cost just $6 each. The Georgia golf tournament prides itself on a simple and affordable menu, even as ticket prices continue to climb.
	How bad for humans is wildlife trade? A new study has answers People sell wild animals for food and for traditional medicine — legally and illegally. A study looks at the risks of spillover diseases from those pangolins, giant rats and other exotic critters.
	Elementary students celebrate math achievement with combine visit Students at Hillcrest Elementary School received a visit from a John Deere combine to celebrate a year-long math program supported by John Deere volunteers.
	'I’ll never have enough': Why Americans feel broke despite making smart financial decisions ‘I’ll never have enough’: Why Americans feel broke despite making smart financial decisionsA new Intuit Credit Karma/Harris Poll study finds 78% of Americans don't feel financially secure — and doing everything right is not enough.Most Americans believe they’ve made smart financial decisions, but doing the “right thing” doesn’t always feel like enough. Many believe that even if financial success exists on paper, it doesn’t guarantee that it will translate to comfort in real life.According to the study, conducted online by The Harris Poll on behalf of Intuit Credit Karma among 2,081 U.S. adults ages 18 and older, 70% of Americans feel they have made smart financial decisions for themselves up until this point, yet 68% say that having a positive financial standing on paper is not enough to ensure a comfortable lifestyle. In this article, Intuit Credit Karma examines the data and why many Americans don’t feel financially secure.Key takeaways: Why Americans feel like they will never have enough money 78% of Americans say they don’t feel financially secure. Even though 70% believe they’ve made smart financial decisions, 68% say that having a positive financial standing on paper is not enough to ensure a comfortable lifestyle.59% of Gen Z (ages 18-29) and 58% of Gen X (ages 46-61) feel financially insecure compared to their peers — but likely for different reasons: 40% of Gen X are living paycheck to paycheck and 36% say their income as not kept up with inflation, while 26% of Gen Z say they are unable to keep up with bills/payments, and report job instability.43% of Americans believe they’ll never have enough money to achieve the American Dream, rising to more than half (56%) of Gen Z.37% of Americans have given up on long-term savings to prioritize spending on short-term purchases and experiences, increasing to nearly half (49%) of Gen Z.Why most Americans don’t feel financially secure todayMore than 3 in 4 Americans (78%) report that they do not feel financially secure. The top culprit is the rising cost of living (47%), followed by the current state of the economy (42%).Put simply, everyday life has gotten more expensive, and incomes are not keeping up. These costs show up in three main ways: costs rising faster than income, little to no savings cushion, and unstable or unpredictable income. For example, when it comes to factors that make Americans feel they are not financially secure:31% say it's because their income has not kept up with inflation, including 36% of Gen X.31% say it’s because they are living paycheck to paycheck, including 40% of Gen X and 38% of Gen Z.28% say it’s because they are unable to put money into savings, including 37% of Gen X.19% say it’s because they are unable to keep up with bills/payments, including 26% of Gen Z.16% say it’s because of job instability, including 26% of Gen Z.Comparison is the thief of joy for many, as more than half of Americans (51%) say they don’t feel as financially secure as other people their age, including 59% of Gen Z and 58% of Gen X. Additionally, more than one-third of Gen Z (34%) point to comparing themselves to others on social media as to why they don’t feel financially secure.Why the American Dream feels out of reach for many AmericansFor many decades, financial success followed a familiar script: Get a job with a steady income, buy a home and eventually retirement will follow.Today, that script feels increasingly unrealistic for 43% of Americans who feel they will never have enough money to achieve the American Dream (i.e., achieving financial success, such as owning a home or supporting a family through hard work), climbing to 56% of Gen Z and 57% of renters.Nearly 3 in 4 Americans (72%) share that certain aspects of their financial standing make them feel like they will never have enough money to achieve the American Dream. The biggest factors come down to three things: income not keeping up with rising costs of living, not being able to save after paying for essentials, and long-term financial pressure like retirement or debt.For example:31% say their income has not caught up with the rising cost of living, rising to 41% among those with a household under $50,000 annually, and including 36% of Gen Z and 34% of Gen X.24% say they are not saving enough for retirement, rising to 32% of Gen X.23% say they are struggling to save money after covering monthly expenses.21% say they are struggling to afford necessities (e.g. rent/mortgage, food, utilities), including 29% of Gen Z.19% point to the amount of debt they have, including 23% of Gen Z.17% say their income is unpredictable.The reliance on financial support adds another layer to the picture, with more than a third of Americans (36%) admitting they receive financial support from someone else (excluding a significant other), most commonly from parents (22%). Among Gen Z, 69% receive financial support, and 53% receive it from their parents.Why financial goals are falling out of reachAmong Americans who have financial goals, more than three quarters (76%) feel there are certain financial goals they will never be able to afford despite how much they’ve saved or how hard they’ve worked.The goals most commonly described as out of reach: Taking a dream vacation — 30%Retiring by 65 — 28%, rising to 43% of Gen XBuying a home — 26%, rising to 40% of Gen ZPaying off debt — 25%, rising to 34% of Gen XOf those who feel they will never be able to afford certain financial goals, 44% have accepted they will need to compromise on what they want (e.g. buying a smaller home or cheaper car, having a smaller wedding), while 33% have concluded that achieving their goals simply will not be possible. Less than a quarter (23%) say they are not willing to compromise on their goals and will do whatever it takes to achieve them.Among Americans who have financial goals, 78% say they're willing to take extreme measures to achieve them. Half (50%) are prepared to reduce non-essential spending (e.g. eating out, entertainment), 26% would delay retirement — including 34% of Gen X — and 25% would take on a second job or work multiple jobs.Why Americans are prioritizing bills over saving for the futureNearly half of Americans (46%) say paying bills and covering necessities, (e.g. rent/mortgage, food, utilities) is among their top priorities for money allocation, including 55% of those with a household income under $50,000 and 52% of Gen X.Building savings comes in second at 43%, but that priority drops to just 33% among those with a household income of less than $50,000, where there's likely little room left over after necessities are covered.Most stark is that 37% of Americans have given up on long-term savings altogether in order to prioritize short-term purchase and experiences, rising to 49% among Gen Z.What to do if you feel financially insecure or behind financiallyIf you’re wondering what to do when you feel financially insecure or like you’ll never have enough money, these steps can help you regain a sense of control over day-to-day money decisions.Build a budget around your reality, not your goals: Before allocating money toward savings or paying down debt, track what you’re actually spending for 30 days. It’s easy to underestimate regular expenses, which can make planning feel useless. Tracking your expenses can help you understand your spending habits better — e.g. how your month-to-month spending compares, including your top spend categories.Prioritize high-interest debt first: If debt is contributing to your sense of financial insecurity, focus any extra dollars on paying down your highest-interest balances first.Reframe the American Dream: If homeownership or retiring at a desired time no longer feel attainable, set new and meaningful goals rather than chasing a one-size-fits-all definition of success. Adjusting your goals is not the same as giving up on them.MethodologyThis survey was conducted online within the United States by The Harris Poll on behalf of Intuit Credit Karma from March 24-26, 2026 among 2,081 U.S. adults ages 18 and older. The sampling precision of Harris online polls is measured by using a Bayesian credible interval. For this study, the sample data is accurate to within +/- 2.7 percentage points using a 95% confidence level. This credible interval will be wider among subsets of the surveyed population of interest.This story was produced by Intuit Credit Karma and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	Nearly 1 in 3 SMB owners put off paying themselves due to invoice delays Nearly 1 in 3 SMB owners put off paying themselves due to invoice delaysFor many small businesses (SMBs), late payments are a liquidity test with real consequences. The time between issuing an invoice and receiving funds can disrupt payroll and create ongoing financial strain.According to Bluevine’s February 2026 survey of 1,052 U.S. small business owners, nearly 3 in 10 delayed paying themselves because customers paid late. This report examines what happens between sending an invoice and getting paid—and what that time actually costs small businesses.For firms with tight margins, even short payment delays can create immediate financial pressure that owners often absorb themselves.Key takeaways59% of SMBs experience at least occasional late payments.28% have $5,000+ tied up in unpaid invoices—a substantial share of revenue for many businesses earning under $100,000 per year.17% of SMBs have missed payroll or nearly missed it due to late payments, which directly affects employee paychecks.Only 31% keep a dedicated reserve for late payments, while 32% keep none, splitting SMBs into buffered and exposed camps.59% of SMBs experience late payments, and 28% have $5K+ tied upLate payments aren’t rare. Nearly 6 in 10 small businesses report at least occasional delays.Even when invoices eventually clear, the delay between issuing an invoice and receiving funds creates day-to-day uncertainty.That translates directly into locked-up cash: 28% of SMBs report $5,000 or more tied up in unpaid invoices at any given time. With nearly half of respondents generating less than $100,000 in annual revenue, a $5,000 delay can represent a sizeable share of that total.The operational cost compounds the financial strain. Nearly 1 in 5 (18%) SMBs say their biggest challenge with past-due invoices is spending time chasing payments instead of running their business. When owners manually track receivables or repeatedly have to follow up, delays become productivity constraints.Clear small business invoicing processes reduce ambiguity before invoices become overdue. Establishing a clear approach to following up on outstanding invoices and reinforcing expectations for on-time payment can shorten payment cycles and reduce recurring friction. Simplifying how customers pay also reduces delays.1 in 6 SMBs have or nearly missed payroll due to late paymentsLate payments don’t stay in the accounting column for long.Nearly 1 in 6 SMBs (17%) report missing or nearly missing payroll due to late payments. For businesses with employees, these delayed invoices can affect paychecks.To bridge these cash flow problems, many owners take on personal financial exposure—shifting the burden onto credit or savings to keep operations moving. Bluevine When owners finance operations out of pocket, the liquidity risk shifts from the customer to the business owner, which can put an emotional toll on them. 34% report increased stress or anxiety while waiting on overdue invoices, and 18% spend more time chasing payments than running the business. Late payments can affect confidence and capacity in addition to the bottom line.Only 31% keep a dedicated reserve for late payments, while 32% keep noneSmall businesses are split almost evenly between those prepared for payment delays and those with no buffer. Only 31% maintain a dedicated reserve specifically for late payments, while 32% keep none at all.Despite widespread lateness, only 19% charge late fees on overdue invoices, even though 59% experience some degree of late payment. Many businesses tolerate payment friction without formal guardrails, which exposes them to the same gaps over and over again.At the same time, 46% report not experiencing cash flow gaps due to slow payments, showing that resilience is possible. Systems need to be in place to build reserves and improve visibility into financial inputs. This can help absorb the volatility before it escalates.Stronger cash flow management systems make irregular payment timing easier to absorb before disrupting operations. Taking steps such as setting aside funds through sub-accounts, adopting automated transfer rules, and aligning pricing expectations with estimates before work begins can create the stability buffered firms need. Bluevine The payment gap is a stability test for small businessesLate payments have become a routine source of stress. The real question is whether a small business can absorb timing delays without jeopardizing its financial stability.When owners delay paying themselves or rely on credit to keep operations running, the timing of receivables becomes a structural risk. Whether a business can absorb it often comes down to having the right financial systems before uneven cash cycles become a crisis.Financial resilience depends on tighter receivables processes and real-time visibility into financial inputs to prevent payment delays from becoming disruptive.Late payments may remain part of doing business—but with stronger systems in place, they don’t need to define it.MethodologyThe survey was conducted by Centiment for Bluevine. The survey was fielded between Feb. 2, 2026, and Feb. 5, 2026. The results are based on 1,052 completed surveys. In order to qualify, respondents were screened to be residents of the United States, over 18 years of age, and a small business owner or professional. Data is unweighted, and the margin of error is approximately +/-3% for the overall sample with a 95% confidence level.This story was produced by Bluevine and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	Artemis II astronauts have fitness lessons for everyone The Artemis II astronauts don't have a lot of space to exercise. That's why they've got the flywheel — a small device that can be used for strength and cardio workouts.
	Clinton starts work on 13th Avenue April 13 It’s spring and that means the beginning of road construction season as Clinton starts work on a project on 13th Avenue next week. Construction on the 13th Avenue N Trail project is expected to start on Monday, April 13. The eastbound lane of 13th Avenue N will be closed from 13th Avenue NW to Springdale [...]
	Rising dental emergencies fuel growth in after-hours and weekend dentist services Rising dental emergencies fuel growth in after-hours and weekend dentist servicesAccording to the American Dental Association, about 2 million people visit emergency departments each year for non-traumatic dental conditions. At first glance, a trip to the emergency room for a tooth problem might seem excessive, but many people simply don’t have other immediate options when severe dental pain hits.Still, an emergency department can only provide temporary relief (usually antibiotics or pain medication), and the visit won’t be cheap or fully covered by insurance. Dental cases also tend to rank low in triage, adding strain to already crowded ERs.In response, more dental clinics across the country are expanding their services to include after-hours and weekend appointments to handle urgent cases that would otherwise land in ERs. It’s a win for the patients, the dental industry, and the emergency departments. Dentistry.com The ER vs. Proper Dentist ServicesAs a whole, there isn’t a sharp increase in emergency department (ED) visits for non-traumatic dental conditions (NTDCs), Dentistry.com reports. However, the number has remained steady at around 2 million visits per year since 2020.ERs in the U.S. are already experiencing significant overcrowding, especially from cases that aren’t true emergencies. Most NTDCs do not fit this category, even though they can feel like it in the moment. An emergency department visit for a tooth disorder rarely provides more than temporary relief, and the costs are significantly higher than specialized emergency dental services.According to a report by the CareQuest Institute for Oral Health, the mean cost of an ED dental visit has surged to $2,437 — a nearly 30% increase in recent years. Furthermore, coverage gaps persist; while many patients are enrolled in Medicaid, federal shifts are placing more of the financial burden on state budgets and out-of-pocket payers.If this trend continues, especially within the context of the 2025 Budget Reconciliation Act (OBBBA), both patients and EDs across the country will likely face increased operational strain as funding cuts to optional Medicaid benefits force uninsured patients to rely on emergency rooms for acute dental care they can no longer access in preventive settings.The Urgent Dental Business ModelFinding a local dentist equipped for immediate, after-hours intervention remains the primary barrier to effective care. This has led to the adoption of centralized coordination tools, where digital platforms are used to bridge the gap between patient demand and provider availability.By providing a searchable database of qualified dentists with same-day or next-day availability, these systems allow patients to filter by location and specific emergency type. This logistical approach effectively triages dental needs outside of the hospital setting, allowing for definitive treatment rather than the temporary palliative care typically offered in an ER.Why the Rise in Dental Emergencies?Non-traumatic dental conditions are usually caused by patients delaying routine care. Whether it’s dental anxiety, the rising cost of living, or lack of proper insurance, many people will choose to ignore early signs of dental problems or completely forgo treatment.This behavior often mirrors broader shifts in the healthcare landscape. When access to preventive settings is restricted — whether through rising out-of-pocket costs or changes in state-level benefit structures — the hospital emergency department becomes the default fallback for pain management. Rather than receiving a permanent fix, patients enter a cycle of "stabilization" where they receive temporary relief, but the underlying pathology remains.An aging population is also a factor, as complex dental work (like implants or crowns) can fail unexpectedly.How Can Emergency Dentist Services Help?First of all, dental clinics with 24/7 online booking and weekend availability make dental services more accessible. Treatment can start right away, unlike a visit to the ER, where doctors will do their best to stabilize you but won’t address the underlying dental issue.After-hours and weekend dentists are increasingly adopting transparent pricing and membership plans to bypass the insurance mess. They help by offering a direct-to-consumer model that functions like a retail clinic, making it easier for a patient to get a fixed price for a fixed problem on a Saturday night.Even for an uninsured patient paying out of pocket, the dentist is significantly cheaper. For the state/taxpayer, a dentist visit is 75%-80% less costly than an ER visit. On average, a localized emergency visit plus an extraction ranges from $200–$500, and stops the problem from turning into a $50,000 multi-day hospital stay.Emergency Dental Care as a NecessityWith more dental patients crowding EDs across the country, it’s clear that emergency dental services are a necessity. After-hours and weekend clinics help patients in need, increase trust in the industry, and help reduce costs for individuals and hospitals alike.This story was produced by Dentistry.com and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	Do immigrants get free healthcare? Do immigrants get free healthcare?Immigrants don’t automatically get free healthcare in the United States. Some people may qualify for Medicaid, the Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP), or certain state programs, but eligibility depends on their status, state rules, and a number of other factors.Many others get coverage through an employer, a school, the Affordable Care Act (ACA) Marketplace, or a private plan—in the same way that most U.S. citizens do.Everyone in the U.S., regardless of citizenship or immigration status, has the right, under federal law, to emergency medical treatment. That, however, is different from ongoing healthcare for preventative treatment or disease management.Starting Oct. 1, 2026, some Medicaid and CHIP rules affecting noncitizens will change. CMS has outlined the main restrictions and exceptions, but it has also said more guidance is coming, so the impact may depend on your immigration status and the state where you live. These changes are tied to the 2025 federal law commonly called the One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBA).Manifest Law breaks down who may qualify for public health programs, how immigration status affects eligibility, and what recent federal changes mean for noncitizens.Key takeawaysImmigrants do not automatically get free healthcare in the United States.Some immigrants may qualify for Medicaid, CHIP, Emergency Medicaid, or state-funded programs, depending on their immigration status, income, where they live, and other factors.Many immigrants and nonimmigrants get health insurance through work, school, the ACA Marketplace, or a private plan.Undocumented immigrants generally do not qualify for fully funded (free) Medicaid, but some may qualify for Emergency Medicaid or local programs.Some immigrants may qualify, but healthcare is not freeThe term “immigrants” can be used to refer to many different types of people living in the U.S. There are lawful permanent residents, nonimmigrants, asylees, refugees, undocumented immigrants, and others.Some may be eligible for certain healthcare programs, but not all immigrants have access to the same health coverage options.Why healthcare isn’t freeAlthough some people qualify for government programs or other lower-cost options, healthcare isn’t free for immigrants.In many cases, a person must still meet eligibility rules for income and immigration status, and the coverage itself likely isn’t fully free. Some programs require copays or other out-of-pocket costs, while others only cover a limited amount of care, which is different from full, ongoing health insurance.What affects healthcare eligibility?Eligibility can depend on an individual’s:AgeIncomeImmigration statusThe state where they liveWhether they’re pregnantWhether they have a disabilityWho is in their householdCan immigrants get Medicaid?Medicaid is available to certain categories of immigrants, but they must also meet income requirements and other eligibility rules under federal and state law.Medicaid is jointly funded by the federal government and states, but states run their own programs within federal rules. That means there are national baseline rules under federal law, but states have some flexibility to decide whether to cover additional groups or services.Who is eligible for Medicaid?According to the Congressional Research Service, qualified noncitizens who may be eligible for Medicaid include:Lawful permanent residentsRefugeesPeople granted asylum or related reliefCertain paroleesCertain abused spouses and childrenCuban-Haitian entrantsCitizens of the Freely Associated States living in the United StatesEven within these categories, not everyone can get Medicaid right away.What is the 5-year rule?The five-year rule refers to the five years that many green card holders must wait before they can receive full federally funded Medicaid.Certain individuals are exempt from the five-year rule, including, but not strictly limited to:RefugeesAsyleesCertain trafficking survivorsSome veterans and military family membersSome lawfully residing childrenSome pregnant individualsWhether someone is subject to the five-year rule differs significantly from one state to another, since federal law allows states to choose whether to cover some people.Do undocumented immigrants get free healthcare?In most cases, undocumented immigrants do not qualify for full federally funded Medicaid. They also are not generally eligible to enroll in marketplace coverage through Healthcare.gov. They may have access to limited emergency care and, in some places, limited state or local programs, but not the same broad coverage options available to many citizens or lawfully present immigrants.This is despite the fact that a large portion of undocumented immigrants do file and pay taxes, using an ITIN number, even though they’re not eligible for a refund or many of the benefits funded by these taxes.Emergency Medicaid for undocumented immigrantsFederal Medicaid law does allow payment for limited emergency services for certain people who are otherwise ineligible for full Medicaid coverage, if they meet all the other Medicaid eligibility requirements in their state. This is commonly called Emergency Medicaid. It is not the same as full health insurance coverage, and it does not replace regular access to preventive or ongoing care.Some undocumented immigrants may also be able to get emergency medical care through:Emergency rooms under the Emergency Medical Treatment & Labor Act (EMTALA)Community health centersMigrant health centersState-funded or local coverage programs, where availableDo nonimmigrants receive free healthcare?Nonimmigrants, including many people on work, student, or other temporary visas, don’t receive free public healthcare just because they’re in the United States.Some may qualify as lawfully present for marketplace purposes, which can allow them to buy coverage through the ACA (also known as Obamacare) Marketplace if they meet the rules. But that is not the same thing as automatic free coverage.Many nonimmigrants get health coverage through:An employerA school or universityA private health insurance planMarketplace coverage, if eligibleMany temporary workers, such as those on an O-1 visa or H-1B visa, and students purchase healthcare coverage through their employer or school.How employer-sponsored plans benefit immigrantsFor many immigrants and nonimmigrants who live and work in the United States, health insurance comes through a job, just as it does for American citizens.Employer-sponsored plans are not free, but they may be subsidized because the employer often pays part of the premium. The employee may still have payroll deductions, copays, deductibles, and other out-of-pocket costs. That means this kind of coverage can be more affordable than buying a private plan through the marketplace, but it is not “free healthcare.”State programs for immigrant healthcareState rules can make a major difference in what healthcare programs are available to immigrants living there.Federal rules set the baseline, but states often have more generous options for certain groups or people. Some states also fund their own programs for residents who would not qualify for full federal coverage.Immigrants seeking health coverage should always check the guidelines for programs run by the state where they live.Here are a few examples of state or city programs:New York City: NYC says immigrants can access low- and no-cost city health services regardless of immigration status, and the city points people to options including NYC Care, which offers services for people who do not qualify for or cannot afford insurance. New York City and New York State offer broader health coverage and options to access medical care than many other parts of the country.California: California has some of the broadest immigrant health coverage policies in the country. Covered California says people can qualify for coverage regardless of immigration status. Current state guidance also says children can qualify for full-scope Medi-Cal regardless of immigration status. (California’s rules changed in 2026, so new enrollment in full-scope Medi-Cal is no longer available for adults with certain immigration statuses.)Texas: Texas Health and Human Services says nonqualified or undocumented immigrants are generally not eligible for ongoing Medicaid, but may qualify for Emergency Medicaid if they meet other eligibility requirements and have an emergency medical condition.Florida: Florida is also more limited in its general Medicaid rules. State materials say noncitizens who meet all Medicaid factors except citizenship status may be eligible for Medicaid to cover medical emergencies, including childbirth. Florida does separately offer Refugee Health Program services, including health assessments for eligible refugees and certain related groups.The takeaway is that some areas offer broader state- or locally funded healthcare, while others mainly provide emergency-only coverage unless a person fits into a specific eligibility category.Always check eligibility rules in your city and state. Medicaid and CHIP rules vary by state, but some states or cities offer more coverage than others. Some areas also offer local clinics that offer low-cost care if insurance isn’t available or programs for specific populations, such as children or refugees.How to apply for Medicaid or other health coverageIf you think you may qualify for Medicaid, CHIP, or another health coverage program, these are typically the first steps:Check your state Medicaid website. Medicaid and CHIP are run at the state level, so your state agency is usually the best place to confirm eligibility and apply.See whether your state uses the Marketplace application. In some cases, people start through the ACA Marketplace and are then routed to Medicaid or CHIP if they qualify.Gather key documents. You may need information about your income, household, and immigration status for the family members applying.Look for local enrollment help. Community health centers, hospitals, and city programs may have navigators or enrollment counselors who can explain available options.Check for local or state immigrant-health programs. Even if you don’t qualify for full Medicaid, you may still have options through Emergency Medicaid, refugee-related services, or local care-access programs.Your immigration status can affect your healthcare optionsHealth coverage rules often depend on a person’s immigration category. Whether someone is a green card holder, a nonimmigrant work visa holder, receiving asylum, an undocumented immigrant, or someone with a pending application can affect which benefits are available.While immigration lawyers can’t serve as health insurance navigators, immigration status can shape what options exist in the first place.FAQs on free healthcare for immigrantsDo green card holders get free healthcare?Some green card holders qualify for Medicaid if they meet income and state eligibility rules, but many face a five-year waiting period unless they qualify for an exception.Can undocumented immigrants get Medicaid?Generally, undocumented immigrants are not eligible for full federally funded Medicaid, but they may qualify for emergency medical treatment.Can immigrants get health insurance through work?Yes. Many immigrants and nonimmigrants qualify for employer-sponsored health insurance.Can visa holders buy health insurance in the U.S.?Some lawfully present nonimmigrants may qualify for Marketplace coverage, and others may get employer, school, or private insurance.This story was produced by Manifest Law and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	Earl Sweatshirt and MIKE put a ring on indie rap's favorite friendship A much-hyped double album finds the two reveling in a mutual influence that has bloomed for a decade, shaping a scene in the process.
	‘Movers for Moms’ donation drive supports Quad Cities families experiencing homelessness A Quad Cities donation drive is collecting everyday essentials for families experiencing homelessness, helping ease the transition into stable housing.
	The 10 most watched cities in America, and what that means for privacy The 10 most watched cities in America, and what that means for privacyIn the past, when people thought about security cameras, they usually associated them with places like airports, casinos or high security government buildings. Over the last decade, this has changed, and now, cameras are everywhere.As cities try to improve safety, the number of surveillance cameras across the U.S. has grown dramatically. Walk through any city in the U.S., and the chances are you’re being recorded — not just once, but countless times.According to research from Comparitech’s 2024 U.S. Surveillance Camera Study, nearly 537,000 cameras operate across the 50 largest U.S. cities — averaging about 11 cameras per 1,000 residents. Some cities far exceed that average.But as camera growth continues, so do questions about privacy and data protection. In this article, Videoloft dives into the issue of surveillance, privacy, and data protection.Below are the 10 most-watched U.S. cities by camera density, taken from Comparitech’s latest research.Atlanta, Ga. — 124 cameras per 1,000 residentsWashington, D.C. — 55 cameras per 1,000 residentsPhiladelphia, Pa. — 31 cameras per 1,000 residentsSan Francisco, Calif. — 25 cameras per 1,000 residentsDenver, Colo. — 20 cameras per 1,000 residentsChicago, Ill. — 19 cameras per 1,000 residentsAlbuquerque, N.M. — 17 cameras per 1,000 residentsDetroit, Mi. — 17 cameras per 1,000 residentsLas Vegas, Nev. — 16 cameras per 1,000 residentsMemphis, Tenn. — 14 cameras per 1,000 residentsThe privacy impact: safety, surveillance and the governance gapThe growth of surveillance in our cities isn’t just about the scale — it’s about the concentration.In cities like Atlanta, where density is 124 cameras per 1,000 residents, residents are statistically far more likely to be recorded multiple times during a short walk through the city.Cities increase their camera counts for a reason. Law enforcement agencies believe that CCTV systems help deter crime and supply crucial evidence that can speed up investigations. In many states, video footage now plays a huge role in identifying suspects and resolving violent incidents.For businesses and residents, visible surveillance can also increase feelings of safety in public spaces.But civil liberties groups warn that the main concern isn’t that cameras exist, but more about how footage is stored, shared, and retained.The American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) says facial recognition technology can allow tracking of people everywhere they go, describing the case of a man arrested in front of his family because of a false facial recognition match.Meanwhile, the Brennan Center for Justice talks about how police are using an increasing “arsenal of surveillance” often without proper oversight. Their reporting on NYPD body-worn cameras shows how using these tools can erode public trust when policies are not disclosed or made clear.What these groups warn is that the real risk isn’t just the cameras themselves, it’s what states do with the data once it’s been collected. In the U.S., there isn’t one unified surveillance privacy law; rather, states vary widely in how they regulate things like footage retention periods, access controls and data sharing, biometric analytics use and more.When a city has a high density of cameras the challenge intensifies. More cameras produce more data. More data increases both investigative capability — and potential exposure — if policies are weak or poorly enforced.The debate, ultimately, isn’t surveillance versus safety. It’s whether public safety initiatives like video surveillance are matched with safeguards to protect public trust.This story was produced by Videoloft and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	War set for Rhythm City show Saturday Band frontman Lonnie Jordan joined News 8 to preview War’s upcoming performance Saturday at Rhythm City Casino in Davenport.
	Iowa-based Casey’s joins S&P 500, marking it as a top US business The Ankeny-headquartered convenience store chain operates 2,900 stores in 19 states.
	Cancer Support Community at Gilda's Club offers retreat for survivors Cancer survivors must navigate a new phase of life that requires paying attention to physical health, nutrition, emotional well-being and overall lifestyle management after completing treatment. That’s why Cancer Support Community Iowa & NW Illinois at Gilda’s Club offers Cancer Transitions, a free program to guide cancer survivors moving from active treatment to post-treatment care. [...]
	'After the Flood' argues Bob Dylan's late career is just as potent as his early years Much of our image of Dylan derives from his early protest music, but Robert Polito's book makes the argument that the most recent 30 years of Dylan's career have been just as creative as the first 30.

Friday, April 10th, 2026

Thursday, April 9th, 2026