The bill amends the Iowa Code to create a more structured process for the ratification of major administrative rules within the executive branch. It introduces a new definition of "major rule," which encompasses rules that entail significant financial expenditures, adversely impact competition or employment, or amend the state implementation plan under the federal Clean Air Act. Agencies are required to provide detailed notices of intended actions, including the text of proposed rules and their economic impacts, thereby enhancing transparency and public engagement. Major rules cannot take effect until they are ratified by the General Assembly, although temporary approval can be sought from the legislative council under certain circumstances.

Additionally, the bill modifies the terms of service for members of various boards, reducing the term length from six years to four years for those appointed by the governor on or after July 1, 2026. It mandates that proposals to amend the state implementation plan under the Clean Air Act must receive ratification from the General Assembly before being submitted for federal approval. The legislation emphasizes the importance of comprehensive regulatory analyses and transparency, ensuring that agencies provide detailed information about the implications of proposed rules while maintaining legislative oversight throughout the rulemaking process.

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