HSB 726: Relating to the powers and duties applicable to state of disaster emergencies and public health disasters, including a prohibition on regulating religious institutions and practices

What it does

This bill relates to the powers and duties applicable during a state of disaster emergency or a public health disaster and prohibits the governor’s ability to regulate religious institutions and practices during these emergencies. The bill prohibits the governor from dictating a measure in a proclamation of a state of disaster emergency (proclamation) that unduly interferes with operations of a religious institution or otherwise impedes an individual’s practice of religion. “Religious institution” is defined in the bill.

House subcommittee · named February 12, 2026

• Rep. Samantha Fett (R) · samantha.fett@legis.iowa.gov
• Rep. Henry Stone (R) · henry.stone@legis.iowa.gov
• Rep. Ross Wilburn (D) · ross.wilburn@legis.iowa.gov

Lobbying · 3 for, 2 against

For: Iowa Baptists For Biblical Values; Iowa Faith and Freedom Coalition; VALOR Iowa

Against: Iowa Atheists and Freethinkers; Iowa Public Health Association

In plain words

1. February 11, 2026Filed in the House and sent to the Judiciary committee
2. February 11, 2026House subcommittee named: Fett, Wheeler and Wilburn
3. February 12, 2026House subcommittee named: Fett, Stone and Wilburn
4. February 12, 2026Subcommittee recommended passing it
5. February 19, 2026Approved by the House committee
6. February 19, 2026Committee vote: 14–6
7. February 24, 2026Approved by the House committee, and given a new number: HF 2710