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 proofs of publication will be considered admissible writings or records under the rules of evidence, thereby enhancing their legal standing. The compensation rates for publication are also addressed, with the director of the department of administrative services required to calculate and publish new rates annually based on the consumer price index, ensuring that the rates remain current and reflective of economic conditions.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 618.11