WeVote
Log In

Bill

Bill

SF 228

A bill for an act relating to sanctions on intervenors in contested cases before the Iowa utilities commission.

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Kevin Alons and 7 co-sponsors

SF 228 tightens sanctions on intervenors: sanctions allowed only if the intervenor is knowingly dishonest or criminal, and causes actual, quantifiable injury exceeding $500.

Subcommittee: Bousselot, Blake, and Webster.
#criminalprocedure #utilities #utilitiescommission
0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · SF 228

Summary of SF 228 ( Iowa )

Overview

SF 228 is a bill relating to sanctions imposed on intervenors in contested cases before the Iowa Utilities Board (Iowa Utilities Commission). The bill would restrict when sanctions can be threatened or imposed, establishing specific conditions that must be met for any sanction to be allowed. It was introduced on February 6, 2025 and assigned to a subcommittee on February 12, 2025 (Bousselot, Blake, and Webster).

Purpose and intent

  • Clarify and limit the use of sanctions against intervenors in contested cases before the Iowa Utilities Commission.
  • Require a defined showing of wrongdoing and measurable harm before sanctions can be considered.

Key provisions

  • The commission may conduct its proceedings in a manner that promotes efficient administration of justice (existing general procedural language retained).
  • The commission shall not threaten or impose sanctions against any intervenor unless: 1) The intervenor was knowingly dishonest or acted in violation of a criminal statute; and 2) The intervenor caused actual injury to the commission, which injury is quantifiable and exceeds $500.
  • An explanatory note accompanies the provision, signaling the bill’s intent but not constituting agreement with the explanation by the General Assembly.

Who is affected

  • Intervenors in contested cases before the Iowa Utilities Commission (this includes individuals, organizations, or entities that intervene in regulatory proceedings).
  • The Iowa Utilities Commission itself, as the body adjudicating sanctions, would be constrained to apply sanctions only under the two specified conditions.

Procedural and timeline aspects

  • Introduced: February 6, 2025.
  • Subcommittee action: February 12, 2025 (Members: Bousselot, Blake, and Webster).
  • The text provided indicates an amendment to Section 474.3 (Proceedings), but does not specify a retroactivity provision or effective date beyond passage. Implementation details would depend on final bill language and enacted provisions.

Potential impact

  • Higher bar for sanctioning intervenors: sanctions would require a combination of dishonest/criminal conduct and a tangible, quantifiable injury over $500.
  • Possible deterrence effect against frivolous sanctions actions, while preserving measures against serious misconduct.
  • Could influence how intervenors assess risk and costs in contested cases, potentially affecting litigation posture and behavior.

Sponsors

  • Primary sponsors: Guth, Rowley, Campbell, Alons, Salmon, Green, Taylor, Westrich.

Note: This summary reflects the introduced bill language and subcommittee status as of the provided information. Final provisions and effects may evolve with committee amendments and legislative action.

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

Sign in to ask a question.