The bill outlines appropriations for the Iowa justice system for the fiscal year 2026-2027, allocating a total of $10,919,246 to the general office of the attorney general. This funding will support victim assistance grants, legal services for individuals in poverty, and cybersecurity improvements. Additionally, the Department of Justice is required to maintain records of time spent representing other agencies and to report on funding sources outside the general fund. Unencumbered funds from victim assistance grants will remain available for expenditure in the following fiscal year. The Department of Corrections is allocated over $300 million for the operation of correctional facilities, with provisions for maintaining drug courts and reallocating funds as needed. The bill also encourages the use of inmate labor for community service projects while ensuring protections against exploitation by private corporations.

Furthermore, the bill includes appropriations for various departments such as public defense, public safety, and the Iowa law enforcement academy, with specific allocations for salaries and support. It allows certain departments to temporarily exceed their appropriated amounts if they have sufficient receivables. Notably, the bill increases the hourly compensation for court-appointed counsel by $5, establishing new rates of $93 for class A felonies, $88 for class B felonies, and $83 for all other cases for appointments made on or after July 1, 2026. This adjustment aims to enhance financial support for legal representation within the justice system.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 915.94, 815.7