MEDICAID COST CONTAINMMENT STRATEGIES:  Iowa Medicaid is planning nine separate strategies to save $18.6 million in state dollars next fiscal year. About half will come by limiting Medicare crossover claims.

TAX CREDIT: Iowans who have low-income jobs may be eligible for the Earned Income Tax Credit. Tax preparation is free at several locations. 

BUDGET CHARTS:  High-level budget and program summaries are presented in this concise PowerPoint presentation. Director Palmer presented it during the governor's budget hearings in mid-December.

FINAL REDESIGN REPORT: Director Palmer calls on legislators to give quick approval to an overhaul of the state's system of delivering mental health and disability services. His final report underscores recommendations by several workgroups. 

MOMENTUM FOR MH REDESIGN: A preliminary report outlines broad goals and recommendations for Iowa's mental health redesign. DHS Director Chuck Palmer says the report shows momentum is growing for sweeping changes. See also a news release.