This bill amends Iowa's Code chapter 68B to enhance government ethics by prohibiting individuals employed by state agencies from using their official insignia, such as badges or business cards, when engaging in activities related to members of the general assembly that are not part of their official duties. Additionally, the bill expands the jurisdiction of the ethics committees in both the Iowa Senate and House of Representatives to include complaints against state agency employees, thereby allowing any person to file ethics complaints against these individuals for violations of the code of ethics.
Furthermore, the bill establishes penalties for those who knowingly and intentionally violate its provisions, classifying such violations as serious misdemeanors. This could result in reprimands, suspensions, or dismissals from their positions, with penalties including confinement for up to one year and fines ranging from $430 to $2,560. The bill aims to ensure accountability and integrity among state agency employees in their interactions with legislative members, thereby reinforcing ethical standards within Iowa's government.