The bill amends Section 29A.53 of the Iowa Code to establish specific conditions under which the army national guard, air national guard, and civil air patrol can be deployed into active combat or hazardous service related to foreign conflicts. It stipulates that such deployment is only permissible if the United States has officially declared war for the purposes of repelling an invasion, suppressing an insurrection, or executing federal laws. Additionally, the bill clarifies that it does not limit the governor's authority to consent to troop deployment under Title 32 of the United States Code.
Furthermore, the bill includes legislative findings asserting that the power to declare war is constitutionally vested solely in the United States Congress. It expresses concern that Congress has abdicated this responsibility to the president, which the bill argues undermines the Constitution and its original intent. The inclusion of these findings serves to emphasize the bill's position on the importance of adhering to constitutional processes regarding military engagement.
Statutes affected: Introduced: 29A.53