This bill modifies provisions related to forcible entry and detainer actions as well as landlord and tenant law in Iowa. It allows both tenants and landlords to consent to receive notices via electronic mail by executing a separate addendum to their rental agreements. The bill stipulates that all hearings for forcible entry and detainer actions must be conducted using remote or virtual technology unless a party requests an in-person hearing. Additionally, it establishes criteria under which court records for forcible entry and detainer actions can be sealed, including instances where the defendant is found not guilty, the case is dismissed, or the action was filed due to clerical errors or retaliatory conduct.

Furthermore, the bill outlines the process for sealing court records, requiring an evidentiary hearing to determine eligibility for expungement. The court may consider various forms of evidence, including testimonies and documentation related to the case. If the court finds in favor of the defendant, it will issue an order to seal the records, which prohibits disclosure and ensures that the sealed records are not considered in future legal proceedings. However, the bill specifies that it does not apply to cases of nonpayment of rent unless it can be shown that such nonpayment was a direct result of retaliatory conduct by the landlord.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 562A.8, 562A.7, 562A.29A, 562B.9, 562B.27A, 648.3