Relating to the confidentiality of certain information filed with the secretary of state by foreign persons holding agricultural land

BILL’S PROVISIONS. This bill provides that information in a registration required to be filed by a foreign person holding agricultural land in this state and a summary report by the secretary of state (secretary) of compiled information included in the last registrations and biennial reports filed by foreign persons is no longer confidential. BACKGROUND —— RESTRICTIONS UPON A FOREIGN PERSON HOLDING AN INTEREST IN AGRICULTURAL LAND.3). Certain exceptions apply. However, generally a foreign person must convert the agricultural land to a purpose other than farming within five years. , a corporation formed in another country), a foreign government, or a nonresident alien (not a United States citizen or a person admitted for permanent residence in the United States). The restriction also applies to an authorized representative acting on behalf of the foreign person as an agent, trustee, or fiduciary. BACKGROUND —— REGISTRATION AND REPORTING REQUIREMENTS.7). The registration must include information regarding the foreign person and the person’s agricultural landholdings.4). The report must also include detailed information regarding the agricultural land held by the foreign person.5A). Information included in the registrations, reports, and summary report is confidential notwithstanding Iowa’s open records law (Code chapter 22). However, the secretary’s summary report must be made available to the governor and members of the general assembly. BACKGROUND —— ENFORCEMENT AND PENALTIES.4).12).6).