The bill amends Section 618.11 of the Iowa Code to clarify the definition and requirements for proofs of publication of public notices. It defines proof of publication as a document that includes the published notice, the date of publication, and the name of the newspaper, or a statement indicating that the notice was posted on the statewide public notice internet site. Additionally, the bill stipulates that newspapers cannot charge government bodies for proof of publication but may charge a fee for proofs that include extra elements, such as a notarized affidavit, not exceeding the actual preparation costs.

Furthermore, the bill establishes that a proof of publication will be considered an admissible writing or record in accordance with section 622.28 of the Iowa Code. The amendments aim to streamline the process of publication and ensure that government bodies can access necessary documentation without incurring additional costs, while also allowing for optional enhancements to the proof of publication for a fee.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 618.11