This bill amends the funding structure for local emergency management agencies in Iowa, specifically by ensuring that their approved budgets are fully funded through a per capita allocation from the city general fund and the rural services levy. It removes previous options for funding, such as countywide special levies and voluntary share allocations, thereby streamlining the funding process. Additionally, the deadline for the local emergency management commission to adopt and certify their budget is moved from February 28 to February 1 each year.

Furthermore, the bill introduces restrictions on the amount that can be levied for emergency management programs funded by county general services levies or supplemental levies, ensuring that the amount for the fiscal year beginning July 1, 2026, does not exceed that of the previous fiscal year. It also modifies the use of supplemental levies, allowing them to be allocated for the maintenance and operation of a joint 911 service board instead of local emergency management agencies. Lastly, it clarifies that appropriations from the rural services fund can be used for local emergency management agency expenses, while striking provisions that allowed general fund appropriations for these expenses.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 29C.17, 331.424, 331.423, 331.427, 331.428