The bill amends Section 724.26 of the Iowa Code to establish mandatory minimum sentences for individuals convicted of firearm or offensive weapon offenses who have prior felony convictions. Under the new provisions, a first offense will be classified as a class D felony with a mandatory minimum confinement of two years, while a second offense will also be a class D felony with a four-year minimum. For a third offense, the classification escalates to a class C felony with a seven-year minimum, and for a fourth or subsequent offense, it remains a class C felony with a ten-year minimum. The maximum confinement for a class D felony is set at five years, and for a class C felony, it is ten years.

Additionally, the bill stipulates that courts are prohibited from deferring judgment or sentencing, or suspending the execution of any mandatory minimum sentence imposed under these new guidelines. This legislative change aims to impose stricter penalties on felons who unlawfully possess or transport firearms or offensive weapons, thereby enhancing public safety and accountability.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 724.26