This bill establishes the criminal offense of engaging in a fraudulent polling scheme in the state of Iowa. It defines the offense as knowingly making materially false representations about polling data or survey results with the intent to obtain money or induce material action, either directly or through conspiracy. The bill outlines specific actions that constitute a violation, including disseminating false representations in connection with a political campaign and using such representations to solicit campaign contributions or influence expenditures. Penalties for violations range from a serious misdemeanor for a first offense to a class D felony for third or subsequent offenses, with funds obtained through fraudulent schemes subject to forfeiture.

Additionally, the bill allows for a private cause of action for individuals who have been harmed by such fraudulent schemes, providing remedies that include actual damages, statutory damages, and attorney fees. However, the bill clarifies that it does not apply to opinions, predictions, or good-faith methodological disagreements, and includes provisions for defenses based on clear disclosures regarding the nature of polling data. The intent of the bill is to protect the public from deceptive practices in political fundraising and to ensure transparency in campaign-related activities.