Relating to the use of blue lights on vessels operating on waters under the jurisdiction of the natural resource commission

Sponsored by the House Natural Resources Committee, Rep. Carter F. Nordman (R)

Topics:Environment & natural resources Public safety & emergencies

Same legislation: HF 95

Write your legislators about itWhat changed before it passed

Official bill page Lobbyist declarations One-pager to print

Where it is now

Done: IntroducedJanuary 21, 2025
Done: SubcommitteeJanuary 29, 2025
Done: House committeeMarch 4, 2025
Done: Passes the HouseFebruary 26, 202689–1
Done: Senate committeeMarch 18, 2026
Done: Passes the SenateMarch 31, 202646–0
Done: To the GovernorApril 16, 2026
Done: Signed into lawApril 16, 2026

Signed into law What’s a funnel?

What’s in it

AI summary People operating boats on certain Iowa waters will no longer be banned from using solid blue lights. While you can now use solid blue lights, you are still not allowed to use flashing blue lights.¹

Read the official explanation

Current law prohibits vessels from displaying or reflecting solid or flashing blue lights when operating on waters under the natural resource commission’s jurisdiction unless the vessel is an authorized emergency vessel. A person who violates this prohibition is subject to a scheduled fine of $35. This bill removes the prohibition on displaying or reflecting solid blue lights while operating a vessel in waters under the commission’s jurisdiction. The display or reflection of flashing blue lights is still prohibited.

Full bill text · What changed before it passed²

Senate subcommittee

Named March 3, 2026. On March 9, 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§462A.12

How the Code works³

Lobbying

1 for · 1 against · 4 undecided · Who →

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91st General Assembly

HF 95Renumbered HF 863Became lawfrom HF 95