The bill amends Section 22.7 of the Iowa Code to establish new guidelines regarding the release of booking photographs, which are defined as photographs or still images generated by law enforcement for identification purposes after an arrest or while in custody. It stipulates that booking photographs are generally considered confidential records but can be released under specific circumstances: if a court has determined that the individual is a fugitive, if the individual poses an imminent threat to public safety, or if the individual has been convicted of a class A or class B felony not involving a controlled substance.

Additionally, the bill clarifies that the provisions do not apply to the confidential dissemination of booking photographs between law enforcement agencies for official duties. It also specifies that a conviction does not include a deferred judgment unless it has been revoked by the court, and a sentence has been imposed. This legislation aims to balance the confidentiality of booking photographs with the need for public safety and law enforcement efficacy.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 22.7