State denies extension for Capitol protesters
DES MOINES, Iowa (AP) — The state has denied a request by protesters to extend permits allowing them to continue their overnight protests against corporate greed on the Capitol lawn in Des Moines. Now organizers are warning of a “big confrontation” Friday night.
The Iowa Department of Administrative Services notified Occupy Iowa organizers Friday of its decision not to renew permits to remain at the Capitol after 11 p.m.
The agency granted a three-day permit earlier in the week after 32 protesters were arrested Sunday night.
Agency spokesman Caleb Hunter says the decision is consistent with past practices of not granting permits for longer than three days for the Capitol.
Occupy Iowa spokesman David Goodner says the decision shows the state stands on the side of big corporations and big money and against hardworking families.
