The bill establishes a Rural Attorney Recruitment Assistance Program, managed by the college student aid commission, aimed at helping rural counties and municipalities recruit attorneys. Eligible counties or municipalities must have a population of less than 26,000 and be located more than 20 miles from a city with a population of at least 50,000. They must also agree to provide a portion of the incentive payment for the attorney's position, which will be in addition to the advertised salary and benefits. The program will provide participating attorneys with an incentive payment in five equal annual installments, amounting to 90% of the annual resident tuition and fees at the University of Iowa College of Law.
The bill outlines the requirements for both the counties or municipalities and the attorneys involved in the program. Counties or municipalities must enter into an agreement that includes provisions to attract and retain the attorney, while attorneys must commit to working full-time in the eligible area for at least five years and participate in volunteer projects. A fund is created to support the program, allowing for the acceptance of various contributions and ensuring that unencumbered funds remain available for future use. The program is limited to assisting no more than five attorneys and is set to be repealed on July 1, 2026.
Statutes affected: Introduced: 8.33
Reprinted: 8.33