This bill establishes a comprehensive framework for the appointment and oversight of Iowa's delegates, referred to as "commissioners," to an Article V convention called by Congress for proposing amendments to the U.S. Constitution. It introduces new definitions for key terms and outlines the selection process for commissioners, including specific qualifications such as citizenship, residency, age, and voting registration. The bill mandates that five commissioners represent Iowa, with strict rules governing their authority, including a prohibition on voting for amendments outside the agreed-upon topics and adherence to the principle of one state, one vote. Additionally, it requires the majority leader of the Senate and the Speaker of the House to convene a special session if Congress calls a convention while the general assembly is not in session.
Furthermore, the legislation establishes an advisory committee to oversee the commissioners and sets forth conditions for their removal. It stipulates that commissioners will receive compensation equivalent to that of a district court judge and mandates compliance with financial disclosure laws. The bill also introduces criminal penalties for commissioners who exceed their authority, classifying such actions as a class D felony, and criminalizes bribery, intimidation, or obstruction of commissioners. Overall, the bill aims to ensure that Iowa's representation at a potential convention is well-regulated, accountable, and conducted with integrity.