In the News
Legislative Initiatives & Public Forums
Iowa Public Radio, River to River, “Iowa schools making slow progress testing for radon:” On October 14th, Croken was featured on River to River to discuss legislative attempts at mitigating radon in schools.
NPR, The Midwest Newsroom, “Iowa law requires schools to test for radon, but no one is making sure they do:” On October 1st, 2025, Croken shared his perspective on a common-sense solution to prevent cancer causing agents in schools.
Quad City Times Editorial, “Another Republican Slight of Hand:” In the Wednesday, June 11th edition of the Quad City Times, Croken shares perspective on Republican plans to nationally cut Medicaid funding.
Minimum Wage Legislation: In January 2025, Croken proposed a bill to incrementally raise Iowa's minimum wage to $15 per hour by 2027, addressing the state's stagnant wage levels since 2008.
Long-Term Care Insurance Reform: Motivated by personal experience, Croken hosted a public forum in September 2024 to discuss issues with long-term care insurance policies, aiming to inform potential legislative action.
School Voucher Opposition: Croken has been vocal against diverting public funds to private schools, arguing that such measures undermine public education.
Environmental Health Concerns: In February 2025, he organized a forum addressing Iowa's high cancer rates, linking them to water contaminants like nitrates and PFAS, and advocating for improved water quality measures.
Gun Violence and School Safety: Following a tragic school shooting in Perry, Iowa, Croken convened a forum in January 2024 to discuss school safety and gun control, featuring various stakeholders including educators and advocacy groups.
Interview on Key Issues: In October 2024, Croken discussed topics such as school vouchers, abortion rights, and civil liberties in an interview with WVIK News, outlining his legislative priorities and values .
Critique of 'Chemtrails' Legislation: In February 2025, Croken was the sole dissenting voice in a subcommittee hearing on a bill proposing a ban on weather modification practices, citing a lack of scientific evidence .