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SF 386

A bill for an act relating to the filing of complaints with the Iowa public information board.

2025-2026 Regular Session

Summary of SF 386: A bill relating to the filing of complaints with the Iowa public information board OverviewBill Number: SF 386 Title: A bill for an act relating to the filing o

Referred to State Government.
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Bill Summary · SF 386

Summary of SF 386: A bill relating to the filing of complaints with the Iowa public information board

Overview

Bill Number: SF 386
Title: A bill for an act relating to the filing of complaints with the Iowa public information board.
Status: Referred to State Government
Introduced: February 20, 2025

Purpose and Intent

The primary purpose of SF 386 is to modify the process for filing complaints with the Iowa Public Information Board (IPIB). The bill aims to streamline the complaint process and provide clearer guidelines for individuals seeking to file complaints regarding alleged violations of Iowa's open records and open meetings laws.

Key Provisions

  • Allows individuals to file complaints with the IPIB electronically, in addition to the current option of filing by mail or in person
  • Requires the IPIB to establish and maintain an online complaint form on their website
  • Specifies that complaints must be filed within 60 days of the alleged violation, unless the IPIB finds good cause for a later filing
  • Directs the IPIB to provide a written decision on each complaint within 90 days of receiving it
  • Grants the IPIB the authority to impose civil penalties of up to $2,500 per violation, payable to the state's general fund

Affected Parties and Impacts

The primary parties affected by this legislation are:

  • Individuals seeking to file complaints with the IPIB regarding alleged violations of open records or open meetings laws
  • The IPIB itself, which will be required to update its complaint filing processes and procedures
  • State and local government agencies that may be subject to IPIB complaints and potential civil penalties

The bill is intended to make the complaint process more accessible and efficient for the public, while also providing the IPIB with additional enforcement mechanisms to address violations.

Procedural and Timeline Considerations

SF 386 has been referred to the State Government committee for further consideration. If passed by the legislature and signed into law by the governor, the new complaint filing procedures would take effect on July 1, 2025.

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

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