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SSB 1031

A bill for an act relating to library services provided by the department of administrative services.

2025-2026 Regular Session

SSB 1031 streamlines library service regulations in Iowa by reducing reporting burdens on the Department of Administrative Services, impacting public libraries and the state librarian.

Committee report approving bill, renumbered as SF 213.
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Bill Summary · SSB 1031

Summary of SSB 1031 - Library Services Act

Bill Overview

Bill Number: SSB 1031
Title: A bill for an act relating to library services provided by the department of administrative services.
Status: Committee report approving bill, renumbered as SF 213.
Introduced: January 22, 2025
Classification: Proposed bill
Subject Areas: Administrative services department, Enrich Iowa program, Executive branch, Libraries, Reports, State Librarian, State library

Purpose and Intent

The primary purpose of SSB 1031 is to amend existing regulations regarding library services managed by the Department of Administrative Services (DAS). The bill aims to streamline reporting requirements and redefine certain obligations related to library services, particularly those associated with the Enrich Iowa program.

Key Provisions

The bill includes several significant changes:

  1. Biennial Reporting Requirements:

    • The bill removes the requirement for the state librarian to develop and approve a biennial unified plan of service and service delivery for library services.
  2. Standards for State Agency Libraries:

    • It eliminates DAS's obligation to establish and administer standards for state agency libraries.
  3. Terminology Update:

    • The bill replaces references to “access plus programs” with “interlibrary loan programs” in the context of DAS's support duties under the Enrich Iowa program.
  4. Reporting Obligations:

    • DAS will still be required to prepare reports on its progress in meeting goals outlined in its agency strategic and operational plans, ensuring accountability despite the removal of specific service delivery plans.

Affected Parties

The changes proposed in SSB 1031 will primarily impact:
- Department of Administrative Services (DAS): The agency will experience a reduction in administrative burdens related to library service planning and reporting.
- State Librarian: The role will see a shift in responsibilities, particularly concerning the biennial planning process.
- Public Libraries: The redefinition of support programs may affect how public libraries access resources and services through the Enrich Iowa program.

Procedural Timeline

  • January 22, 2025: Bill introduced and referred to the State Government committee.
  • January 23, 2025: Subcommittee meeting scheduled for January 28, 2025.
  • February 4, 2025: Subcommittee recommends passage; committee report approving the bill, renumbered as SF 213.

Conclusion

SSB 1031 seeks to modernize and simplify the framework governing library services in Iowa, focusing on efficiency and clarity in the roles of the DAS and the state librarian. By removing certain reporting and planning requirements, the bill aims to allow for more streamlined operations while still holding the DAS accountable for its strategic goals.

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

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