Former North Dakota Gov. Doug Burgum previously told lawmakers that national security and the economy are his top priorities for leading the Interior Department.

Robert F. Kennedy Jr., President Donald Trump's pick to lead the top U.S. health agency, came under attack for his anti-vaccine views at a contentious Senate confirmation hearing on Wednesday, with one senior Democrat saying he embraced conspiracy theories and "quacks" to dissuade use of lifesaving medicines.

Republicans still have large legislative majorities in Iowa, but a Democrat’s apparent win in a solidly conservative area buoyed that party at a moment of uncertainty.

The floor covering in the House chamber is adorned with the state tree, the Douglas fir, while chinook salmon and wheat are woven into the carpet in the Senate. Chinook salmon are the state fish and wheat represents the state’s farming heritage.

In a 31-to-15 vote, Senate Bill 2137 moves to the House. If passed, it would keep NDGF from implementing rules keeping private landowners from using supplemental feed on their property.

The Kansas House and Senate were working on parallel bills and both had hearings on Tuesday. The Republican-sponsored bills would prohibit state funding to gender-affirming care and prohibit healthcare providers from providing care to children including surgery, hormones and puberty blockers.

Minnesota’s Senate is back to 67 members after starting the year in a tie. The DFL regained its majority in the state Senate after a special election on Tuesday night.

Robert F. Kennedy Jr. was pressed to clarify his views on vaccines, abortion and public health priorities in the first of two senate hearings as he tries to make the case to become President

The education committees in both the House and Senate approved a $450 million bill, a top priority for Gov. Bill Lee. Legislators are expected to pass it quickly during a special session this week.