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IA SF177
IA SF177A bill for an act relating to the ability of persons to examine the public records of school districts.
summary
Introduced
02/03/2025
02/03/2025
In Committee
02/03/2025
02/03/2025
Crossed Over
Passed
Dead
Introduced Session
91st General Assembly
Bill Summary
This bill relates to the ability of persons to examine the public records of school districts. The bill requires the board of directors of a school district to comply with all applicable provisions of Code chapter 22 (examination of public records). If the board of directors of a school district fails to comply with Code chapter 22, a person aggrieved by the board of directors’ failure may enforce the person’s rights pursuant to Code chapter 22, which includes the ability to seek a writ of mandamus or an injunction and other types of civil enforcement mechanisms under Code section 22.10. Civil enforcement mechanisms include payments of monetary damages by the lawful custodian who violated Code chapter 22, payment of costs and reasonable attorney fees, and, for repeat offenses, an order removing the person from office.
AI Summary
This bill requires school district boards of directors to fully comply with Chapter 22, which governs the examination of public records in Iowa. If a school district board fails to follow the provisions of Chapter 22, an aggrieved person (such as a citizen or media representative) can take legal action to enforce their rights. These enforcement mechanisms, outlined in Chapter 22, include the ability to seek a writ of mandamus (a court order compelling the board to follow the law), obtain an injunction, and pursue civil remedies. Potential consequences for non-compliance can include monetary damages, payment of legal costs and attorney fees, and in cases of repeated violations, the possibility of removing the responsible officials from office. The bill essentially strengthens public access to school district records by providing clear legal recourse for individuals whose attempts to examine public documents are improperly blocked or hindered.
Committee Categories
Education
Sponsors (1)
Last Action
Subcommittee recommends passage. (on 02/13/2025)
Official Document
bill text
bill summary
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bill summary
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bill summary
| Document Type | Source Location |
|---|---|
| State Bill Page | https://www.legis.iowa.gov/legislation/BillBook?ga=91&ba=SF177 |
| BillText | https://www.legis.iowa.gov/docs/publications/LGI/91/attachments/SF177.html |
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