The bill amends Section 144B.6 of the Iowa Code regarding the authority of an attorney in fact under a durable power of attorney for health care. It changes the attorney's duty from having to act in accordance with the principal's desires to giving preference to those desires as expressed in the durable power of attorney, a related declaration, or communicated directly to the attorney. Additionally, the bill clarifies that the attorney's authority is not limited by the principal's desires expressed verbally to others or in other documents unless the durable power of attorney explicitly states that it is limited and outlines those limitations.

Furthermore, the bill specifies that if the principal's desires are unknown, the attorney must act in the principal's best interests, considering their overall medical condition and prognosis. This amendment aims to provide clearer guidance on the responsibilities of attorneys in fact and the extent of their authority in health care decisions, ensuring that the principal's wishes are prioritized while also allowing for flexibility in the attorney's decision-making process.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 144B.6