Bill > HF2490

This bill, effective July 1, 2026, aims to update Iowa's laws concerning public meetings and records by modifying several key provisions. Firstly, it enhances public notice requirements for governmental body meetings by mandating that notices be posted in a prominent and conspicuous place, visible at all times, and also on the governmental body's primary internet site or other primary online presence, in addition to advising news media who have requested notice. Secondly, it clarifies rules around the examination and copying of public records, stipulating that custodians cannot require a requester's physical presence and must fulfill requests received in writing, by telephone, or electronically, while also establishing that records taking less than thirty minutes to produce should generally be provided at no cost beyond copying fees, and that actual costs for services should be clearly communicated and reasonable, excluding ordinary operational expenses. Thirdly, the bill expands the information that must be disclosed regarding the separation of certain government employees, contractors, or appointees, requiring the disclosure of their last day of work or active function and any payments or benefits received beyond compensation for work performed. Finally, it introduces a new provision allowing governmental bodies to seek court injunctions to restrain individuals found to be "vexatious requesters"—those whose requests, in totality, are not in the public interest, constitute a pattern of harassment, and substantially injure the government body's ability to perform its duties—while also outlining criteria for determining vexatious conduct and providing for the award of costs and attorney fees to requesters if an injunction is not granted.