This bill establishes new requirements for telephone communications between business entities and consumers in Iowa. It mandates that business entities maintain at least one publicly accessible telephone number for consumer inquiries related to their services. A representative must be available during customer service hours to assist consumers, and if an automated response system is used, it cannot require more than three menu prompts before allowing the consumer to speak to a representative. Additionally, businesses are prohibited from employing call-routing practices that intentionally delay or impede access to a representative, ensuring that consumers are connected within two minutes of selecting the option to speak to someone.

Violations of these requirements can result in civil penalties determined by the director of the department of insurance and financial services, and consumers may seek damages in court, including a minimum of $500 per violation. The bill also allows the attorney general to take legal action against businesses that violate these provisions. However, it specifies that these requirements do not apply to businesses regulated by federal law that preempts state regulations. The director is tasked with creating rules to enforce compliance, handle consumer complaints, and set civil penalties for violations.