The bill amends the Iowa Code to enhance the rights of peace officers, public safety, and emergency personnel during formal administrative investigations. It introduces a revised definition of "formal administrative investigation," clarifying that such investigations are initiated based on a complaint and may result in significant disciplinary actions. The bill also distinguishes between informal inquiries and formal investigations, ensuring that officers receive written summaries of complaints before interviews and have access to relevant documents and recordings. Additionally, it establishes the rights of officers during interviews, including the right to legal counsel and the requirement for interviews to be recorded.

Further provisions include the burden of proof for placing an officer on a Brady-Giglio list, which must be met by clear and convincing evidence. The bill prohibits agencies from requiring officers to disclose personal records without a valid warrant and ensures that exculpatory evidence is not withheld. Officers are granted access to the written complaint, witness statements, and the complete investigative report at the conclusion of the investigation. The bill also emphasizes the confidentiality of evidence in district court and applies retroactively to July 1, 2021, aiming to provide greater protections and due process for officers while holding prosecuting agencies accountable.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 80F.1