Bill > HF297

This bill makes several modifications to Iowa state law regarding emergency services and city government. First, it clarifies that volunteer firefighters and emergency medical care providers can receive lawful compensation and nominal stipends without legal restriction. Second, the bill allows city council members to serve as chiefs of volunteer fire departments, with a requirement that the member must abstain from voting on their own appointment and that their appointment requires a majority council vote. Third, the bill establishes new provisions for city financial management, specifically allowing cities to create additional funds or reserve savings accounts dedicated to acquiring and maintaining major equipment for police, fire, rescue, and emergency medical services. Under these new provisions, cities can now deposit insurance settlements, awards, or payments for damaged emergency services equipment directly into these specialized funds, rather than the general fund. If city general funds are used to repair or replace equipment, the city can recoup those expenses from insurance settlements. The bill is set to take effect on July 1, 2025, and applies to cities' management of emergency services personnel and equipment.

Local Government (House)

https://www.legis.iowa.gov/legislation/BillBook?ga=91&ba=HF297