Relating to magistrate qualifications

Where it is now

1. ✓
   Done: IntroducedFebruary 11, 2025
2. ✓
   Done: SubcommitteeFebruary 12, 2025
3. ✕
   Stopped: House committeeDied when the General Assembly ended
4. Next: Passes the House
5. Next: Senate committeeFunnel: by March 20, 2026
6. Next: Passes the Senate
7. Next: To the Governor
8. Next: Signed into law

Died when the session ended The General Assembly adjourned on October 2, 2026. Bills that didn’t pass both chambers died. What’s a funnel?

What’s in it

This bill relates to magistrate qualifications. Under current law, a magistrate is required to be an attorney licensed to practice in the state unless the magistrate was holding office on April 1, 2009. The bill removes the requirement that a magistrate be a licensed attorney and provides that licensed attorneys instead receive first consideration. The bill substantively matches the provision in effect prior to 2009.

From the explanation printed with the bill as introduced, written by the Legislative Services Agency. Amendments adopted later aren’t reflected. Full bill text

House subcommittee

Named February 12, 2025. Meeting: Monday, February 17 · 12:30 PM · House Lounge 2.

• Rep. John H. Wills REmail
• Rep. Rick L. Olson DEmail
• Rep. Henry Stone REmail

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§602.6404

Read from the bill as introduced. Each links to every bill touching that chapter of the Iowa Code. How the Code works