The bill amends the Iowa Code to improve the legislative review process for administrative rules, particularly focusing on "major rules." It introduces a new definition of "major rule," which encompasses rules that necessitate significant financial expenditures, adversely affect competition or employment, or amend the state implementation plan under the Clean Air Act. Agencies are required to provide detailed notices of intended actions, including the text of proposed rules and a comprehensive regulatory analysis evaluating their costs and benefits. The legislative services agency is also tasked with conducting a legislative regulatory analysis for major rules, ensuring that the legislative body is informed prior to the adoption of any major rule.

Additionally, the bill modifies the structure and responsibilities of the Administrative Rules Review Committee by increasing its membership and establishing procedures for reviewing major rules. The committee can delay the effective date of a rule or suspend its applicability if it identifies issues such as lack of statutory authority or significant policy concerns, with any delayed rules needing general assembly approval to take effect. The bill also introduces a new section allowing individuals to bring actions in district court regarding major rules, enabling a de novo review of the rules' qualifications and agency compliance. Furthermore, it changes the terms of office for gubernatorial appointees to various boards and authorities, establishing staggered six-year terms for those appointed before June 30, 2026, and four-year terms for those appointed thereafter. Lastly, it requires certain proposals related to the state implementation plan under the Clean Air Act to be ratified by the general assembly before federal submission, with specific exceptions noted.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 17A.2, 17A.4, 17A.4A, 17A.5, 17A.8, 16.2, 16.2C, 52.4, 69.19, 256.3, 262.2
Reprinted: 17A.2, 17A.4, 17A.4A, 17A.8, 17A.5, 214A.2, 16.2C, 52.4, 69.19, 256.3, 262.2