HSB 161: Relating to the authority of an attorney in fact under a durable power of attorney for health care

What it does

This bill relates to the authority of an attorney in fact (attorney) under a durable power of attorney for health care (durable power of attorney). _____ of attorney. If the principal executes a declaration related to life-sustaining procedures, the declaration shall not be interpreted to prohibit the attorney from withdrawing hydration or nutrition in certain circumstances, or otherwise restrict the authority of the attorney. The bill amends the attorney’s duty by requiring the attorney to give preference to the desires of the principal as expressed in the durable power of attorney, a declaration relating to the use of life-sustaining procedures, or made known to the attorney by the principal.

House subcommittee · named January 29, 2026

• Rep. Bill Gustoff (R) · bill.gustoff@legis.iowa.gov
• Rep. Dr. Megan L. Srinivas (D) · megan.srinivas@legis.iowa.gov
• Rep. Blaine C. Watkins (R) · blaine.watkins@legis.iowa.gov

Lobbying · 2 for, 0 against

For: Iowa Integrated Health Planning and Advisory Council; Iowa State Bar Association

In plain words

1. February 11, 2025Filed in the House and sent to the Judiciary committee
2. February 11, 2025House subcommittee named: Gustoff, Croken, Thomson and C
3. February 17, 2025Subcommittee recommended passing it
4. January 29, 2026House subcommittee named: Gustoff, Srinivas and Watkins
5. February 4, 2026Subcommittee recommended passing it
6. February 12, 2026Approved by the House committee
7. February 12, 2026Committee vote: 21–0
8. February 17, 2026Approved by the House committee, and given a new number: HF 2570