Bills › 91st General Assembly
Establishing a seal of civics excellence program administered by the department of education to recognize student excellence in civics
Sponsored by the House Education Committee
Topics:K–12 education
Where it is now
- Done: IntroducedJanuary 14, 2026
- Done: SubcommitteeJanuary 14, 2026
- Done: House committeeJanuary 28, 2026
- Done: Passes the HouseMarch 3, 202695–0
- Skipped: Senate committeeSkipped
- Done: Passes the SenateMarch 4, 202645–0
- Done: To the GovernorMay 6, 2026
- Done: Signed into lawJune 1, 2026
Signed into law What’s a funnel?
What’s in it
This bill establishes a seal of excellence program to recognize students graduating from high school who have demonstrated proficiency in civics. The bill directs the department of education to develop and administer the program. The department shall determine the minimum requirements necessary for a student to obtain a civics seal, including knowledge of American government and participation in civic and community activities. The department must produce a civic seal, which may include a sticker for a student’s transcript or a certificate.
Read the full explanation
A seal of civics excellence must be affixed to the student’s diploma and noted on the student’s transcript. The bill provides that participation in the program by a school district or accredited nonpublic school is voluntary. A participating school must notify the department of the names of students who qualify for a seal, and the department must provide the appropriate number of seals or other authorized endorsement. The department may charge a nominal fee to cover printing and posting charges related to issuance of the civics seal.
From the explanation printed with the bill as introduced, written by the Legislative Services Agency. Changed since by amendment H-8075; see Amendments. Full bill text · What changed before it passed
House subcommittee
Named January 14, 2026 (as HSB 558). On January 26, 2026 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
Iowa Code it changes
Amends§256.9
Read from the bill as introduced. Each links to every bill touching that chapter of the Iowa Code. How the Code works
Lobbying
14 for · 0 against · 1 undecided · Who →
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Where this legislation came from and where it went: earlier tries, the versions it moved through this Assembly, and later bills built on it.
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91st General Assembly
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