This bill proposes significant changes to the office of the consumer advocate in Iowa, transitioning it from a division of the Department of Justice to an independent agency. The governor will now appoint the consumer advocate, subject to Senate confirmation, from a list of three candidates provided by a committee that includes the secretary of agriculture, the auditor of state, and the treasurer of state. The consumer advocate will serve a five-year term and is required to report regularly to the same committee regarding their activities. Additionally, the bill removes the attorney general's authority to set the salary of the consumer advocate and to employ staff for the office.

The bill also includes various amendments to existing laws to reflect this change in status. Notably, it deletes references to the consumer advocate as part of the Department of Justice and establishes the office as an independent entity. The consumer advocate will now have the authority to employ necessary staff and consultants, with their salary determined by the governor within a specified range. The bill concludes by terminating the current consumer advocate's term upon the bill's effective date, ensuring a smooth transition to the new structure.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 8A.461, 12.91, 475A.1, 475A.3, 475A.6, 476.10