The bill amends the existing regulations governing confinement feeding operations in Iowa by adjusting the threshold for when a construction permit is required. Specifically, it lowers the animal unit capacity threshold from at least 1,000 animal units to more than 300 animal units for requiring a permit. This change means that operations with a capacity of 300 animal units, equivalent to approximately 750 swine weighing more than 55 pounds, will now need to obtain a construction permit from the Department of Natural Resources (DNR).

Additionally, the bill clarifies that a permit is not required for confinement feeding operation structures that are part of a research college's operations, as specified in section 459.318. The bill also maintains existing penalties for violations of the regulations, which can include civil penalties of up to $10,000 per day for administrative violations and up to $5,000 per day for judicial violations. Overall, the bill aims to enhance regulatory oversight of smaller confinement feeding operations to ensure compliance with environmental and animal welfare standards.