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SF 416

A bill for an act adopting a state dictionary.

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Doug Campbell

Bill SF 416 designates the Oxford English Dictionary as Iowa's official state dictionary, promoting language consistency in government operations and official documents.

Subcommittee: Rozenboom, Blake, and Schultz.
#englishlanguage #jointpowersandauthorities #stateofiowa
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Bill Summary · SF 416

Summary of Bill SF 416: Adoption of the State Dictionary

Bill Overview

  • Bill Number: SF 416
  • Title: A bill for an act adopting a state dictionary.
  • Introduced: February 24, 2025
  • Current Status: Subcommittee: Rozenboom, Blake, and Schultz
  • Classification: Bill
  • Subject Areas: English language, joint powers and authorities, State of Iowa

Purpose and Intent

The primary purpose of Bill SF 416 is to establish an official state dictionary for Iowa. By adopting a standardized reference, the bill aims to promote consistency in language usage across various state functions and documents.

Key Provisions

  • Adoption of the Oxford English Dictionary:

    • The bill amends Section 1.18 of the Iowa Code to designate the Oxford English Dictionary as the official dictionary of the state of Iowa.

  • Exclusions from Provisions:

    • The provisions of Code section 1.18 will not apply to certain areas, including:
    • Commerce
    • Public health and safety
    • Education
    • Communication by members of the general assembly or state government officers

Impact

  • Who is Affected:

    • The adoption of the Oxford English Dictionary as the official state dictionary will primarily affect state government operations, including legislative drafting, official communications, and documentation.
    • It may also influence educational institutions and public entities that reference the state dictionary in their operations.

  • Potential Benefits:

    • Establishing a single reference point for language can enhance clarity and reduce ambiguity in legal and official documents.
    • It may facilitate better communication among state officials and the public.

Procedural Aspects

  • Legislative Timeline:
    • The bill was introduced on February 24, 2025, and has been referred to the State Government committee.
    • A subcommittee consisting of members Rozenboom, Blake, and Schultz was formed on February 26, 2025 to review the bill.

Conclusion

Bill SF 416 seeks to formalize the use of the Oxford English Dictionary in Iowa's state governance, aiming to improve language consistency across state functions. As it progresses through the legislative process, its implications for state operations and communication will be closely monitored.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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