Author Archives: Marty Ryan

Paying Attention

Posted on May 5, 2011 by Marty Ryan

You know what? Tom Vilsack never once said the word “veto” in the same sentence as “death penalty”. Continue reading →

Posted in Death Penalty, Issues | Tagged , , , | 1 Comment

A Stunning Development

Posted on April 26, 2011 by Marty Ryan

. . . the Iowa Code defines an electronic control device as a dangerous weapon, “capable of inflicting death upon a human being.” Continue reading →

Posted in Criminal Justice, Issues | Tagged , , , | Leave a comment

Advisory Or Enforcement?

Posted on April 4, 2011 by Marty Ryan

There are 940 communities in Iowa. There are 99 counties. Each has its own legal counsel. That means there are potentially 1,039 different opinions on issues involving public records and open meetings. Continue reading →

Posted in Issues, Open Meetings/Public Records | Tagged , , , , , | 2 Comments

From License Plates To Toilet Paper

Posted on March 18, 2011 by Marty Ryan

Many inmates have never had the opportunity to apply for a decent job. Often, they lack the basic skills necessary to complete an application form. Continue reading →

Posted in Criminal Justice, Issues | Tagged , , , | 2 Comments

Turf Wars

Posted on March 7, 2011 by Marty Ryan

For several years there has been a battle between the Iowa House of Representatives and the Iowa Senate over which direction to take in improving Iowa’s public records and open meeting laws.   The battle is much more than just language … Continue reading →

Posted in Issues, Open Meetings/Public Records | Tagged , , , | Leave a comment

Every Step You Take . . .

Posted on February 24, 2011 by Marty Ryan

The eeriness of Orwell’s prediction didn’t occur in a year, it took time. Government in this country has not gone as far as England, but if we’re not vigilant, it will be a matter of time. Continue reading →

Posted in Issues, Privacy | Tagged , , , , , , , | Leave a comment