Knowing how to connect with your local news station — and hold it accountable — is more valuable than most viewers realize. KCCI Des Moines offers Iowa residents a range of tools, from breaking news alerts to federally mandated public records, that put information and access directly in viewers’ hands.
For anyone who wants to stay on top of local news without constantly checking a screen, KCCI provides email alerts that deliver updates directly to your inbox. The station also maintains a full suite of apps and social media channels — including Facebook and Twitter — so readers can follow coverage in whatever format works best for them. For those who prefer to pull headlines on their own schedule, an RSS feed is also available.
Transparency and Public Accountability
One of the most important — and least understood — resources a local broadcaster offers is its public inspection file. The Federal Communications Commission requires every licensed TV station to maintain records that are open to the public, covering everything from ownership to political advertising. Iowa viewers can access KCCI’s file directly through the FCC’s public records portal, and anyone who needs help navigating those documents can reach out through the station’s public file assistance page. Any pending FCC license applications are also posted for public review.
Viewers who rely on closed captioning for accessibility can find the appropriate contacts through KCCI’s captioning contacts page — a resource that matters for the many Americans who are deaf or hard of hearing and depend on accurate captions to follow the news. The station also publishes its news policy statements and Equal Employment Opportunity reports, giving the public insight into how editorial decisions are made and how the station approaches fair hiring practices.
It is worth noting that KCCI, as part of Hearst Television, participates in affiliate marketing programs. In plain terms, this means the station may earn commissions when viewers purchase products through links featured in its coverage. This is a common practice among digital media outlets, but readers should be aware of it when evaluating product-related content. Full details are outlined in the station’s digital advertising terms and conditions and broadcast terms and conditions.
Working With KCCI
That transparency extends to how the station handles viewer data as well. KCCI publishes a detailed privacy notice explaining what information is collected and how it is used. Viewers who do not want their data used for targeted advertising can opt out through the DAA Industry Opt Out tool, in line with industry standards. The station’s full terms of use and a complete site map are also publicly available for anyone who wants to understand how the platform operates.
For journalists, students, and media professionals, KCCI offers several pathways to get involved or do business with the station. Those interested in working there can explore open positions through the careers portal, while college students pursuing media experience can apply through the internship program. Businesses looking to reach Iowa audiences can learn more through the station’s advertising page. Organizations or individuals seeking to license footage from KCCI broadcasts can find that process explained on the station’s licensing page.
Anyone with questions or feedback for the station can reach out directly through the contact page, where viewer inquiries are welcomed.