This bill establishes a comprehensive framework for the appointment and oversight of commissioners who will represent Iowa at a convention called by Congress to propose amendments to the U.S. Constitution. It introduces new definitions for key terms such as "advisory committee," "commissioner," and "delegation," and outlines the selection process for commissioners, which includes specific qualifications and the appointment of alternate commissioners to address any vacancies. The bill mandates the adoption of a commissioning resolution that delineates the commissioners' duties and limitations, explicitly prohibiting them from voting on amendments outside the designated topics of the convention.
Furthermore, the legislation details the procedures for convening special sessions of the General Assembly in response to a convention call, as well as the processes for removing commissioners and managing vacancies. It establishes that commissioners will receive compensation equivalent to that of a district court judge and must comply with financial disclosure requirements. The bill also introduces criminal penalties for commissioners who exceed their authority or engage in bribery, intimidation, or obstruction, classifying such actions as a class D felony. Overall, the legislation aims to ensure Iowa's preparedness and integrity in participating in a potential Article V convention while maintaining strict adherence to established rules and ethical standards.