Relating to the use of county funds by ecclesiastical and sectarian institutions

Sponsored by the House Local Government Committee

Topics:State government Cities & counties

Same legislation: HF 2079

Write your legislators about itWhat changed before it passed

Official bill page Lobbyist declarations One-pager to print

Where it is now

Done: IntroducedJanuary 18, 2024
Done: SubcommitteeJanuary 23, 2024
Done: House committeeJanuary 30, 2024
Done: Passes the HouseFebruary 20, 202493–2
Done: Senate committeeMarch 11, 2024
Done: Passes the SenateApril 1, 202438–10
Done: To the GovernorApril 8, 2024
Done: Signed into lawApril 8, 2024

Signed into law What’s a funnel?

What’s in it

AI summary Counties would be allowed to use public money for certain projects or programs run by religious organizations if those programs benefit the general public. These programs cannot require anyone to participate in religious activities or attend specific religious classes. Currently, local officials are not allowed to give public funds to any institution managed by a religious group.¹

Read the official explanation

This bill relates to the use of county funds by ecclesiastical and sectarian institutions. The bill allows public funds to be utilized by an ecclesiastical or sectarian institution for a project or program if it benefits the public. The project or program using public funds must not require religious or secular services, educational programs, or participation requirements. Current law prohibits a county or township officer from appropriating, giving, or loaning public funds to institutions, schools, associations, or objects under ecclesiastical or sectarian management or control.

Why it matters. Counties and townships would be allowed to use public funds for projects or programs run by religious or sectarian institutions if those programs benefit the general public. These programs cannot require anyone to participate in religious services, educational programs, or any other specific participation requirements.²

Changed since by amendment S-5110; see Amendments.

Full bill text · What changed before it passed³

Senate subcommittee

Named February 21, 2024. On February 27, 2024 it recommended passage. [].

Three legislators hear a bill first and recommend what the committee should do; it’s the best time to weigh in. How to take part

1 written public comment to its subcommittee: January 25, 2024 (1) · on the Legislature’s site

Iowa Code it changes

Amends§331.901

How the Code works⁴

Lobbying

4 for · 1 against · 9 undecided · Who →

Family tree

90th General Assembly

HF 2079Renumbered HF 2264Became lawfrom HF 2079