This bill amends Section 68B.22 of the Iowa Code to allow local officials and local employees to receive monetary donations specifically to offset medical or health care expenses resulting from a diagnosed condition. The new provision permits these donations to be made through online crowdfunding or fundraising platforms, with a cap of $100 per calendar year for each donor-recipient pair. This change aims to provide financial support for local officials and employees facing health-related challenges while maintaining ethical standards regarding gift acceptance.

Additionally, the bill establishes penalties for violations of the amended provisions, classifying any intentional breach of the new rules as a serious misdemeanor. Consequences for such violations may include reprimand, suspension, or dismissal from the individual's position, with serious misdemeanors carrying potential confinement of up to one year and fines ranging from $430 to $2,560. This framework seeks to ensure that while local officials and employees can receive necessary support, there are still safeguards in place to prevent abuse of the system.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 68B.22