HF 2042: Requiring the department of management to conduct a study regarding the merger of the department of natural resources and the department of agriculture and land stewardship, and including effective date provisions

What it does

This bill requires the department of management (DOM) to conduct a study regarding the possible merger of the department of natural resources and the department of agriculture and land stewardship. DOM must consider the departments’ overlapping missions and programs, the impact of such merger, and the best methods to integrate the two departments. DOM must submit a report regarding its findings and recommendations to the governor and general assembly not later than December 31, 2026. The bill takes effect upon enactment.

House subcommittee · named February 4, 2026

• Rep. Taylor R. Collins (R) · taylor.collins@legis.iowa.gov
• Rep. Jeff Cooling (D) · jeff.cooling@legis.iowa.gov
• Rep. Austin Harris (R) · austin.harris@legis.iowa.gov
• Rep. Dr. Megan L. Srinivas (D) · megan.srinivas@legis.iowa.gov
• Rep. Derek Wulf (R) · derek.wulf@legis.iowa.gov

Lobbying · 1 for, 8 against

For: Americans For Prosperity

Against: Environmental Law and Policy Center; Humane World for Animals; Iowa Bowhunters Association; Iowa Chapter of Sierra Club; Iowa Conservation Alliance; Iowa Environmental Council; Iowa Trappers Association; The Nature Conservancy

In plain words

1. January 14, 2026Filed in the House and sent to the State Government committee
2. February 4, 2026House subcommittee named: Collins, Cooling, Harris, Srinivas and Wulf
3. February 12, 2026Subcommittee recommended passing it