Iowa’s New Laws Go Into Effect July 1: Here’s What’s Changing

The Iowa Legislature passed 206 bills this year, according to the Des Moines Register, with 200 of them becoming law. It's the largest number of new laws passed since 2007. Most go into effect on July 1st. Here are just a few new Iowa laws to be aware of.

Speed Limit Going Up

The default speed limit on Iowa roads, including most two-lane highways and rural roads, is going up to 60 miles per hour, according to the Register. That is an increase from 55 miles per hour, which went into effect during the 1970s energy crisis.

New Protections for Towed Vehicles

The Register reports that a new Iowa law says that towing companies must now allow Iowans to use credit cards and other forms of payment, not just cash, to secure the release of their vehicle. Towers must also publicly post their impound fees.

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Emergency Powers of the Governor

This new law stems from how Iowa Governor Kim Reynolds handled the COVID crisis in the state. The Register reports that Iowa's governor may no longer order vaccinations or close churches during an emergency. This includes a natural disaster or public health emergency.

Update To Police Training Protocol

A new law states that law enforcement in Iowa no longer needs to undergo bias prevention training, according to the Register. The law does maintain that officers must still undergo training on de-escalation techniques.

Public Employees Must Have Immigration Status Checked

The Register reports that a new Iowa law adds several immigration and employment verification measures for Iowa public employees. The law was passed in the wake of the immigration arrest of former Des Moines Public Schools Superintendent Ian Roberts last fall.

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'MAHA' Changes Iowa Drug Law

A new Iowa law says that pharmacists can now sell the drug ivermectin over the counter to Iowans who do not have a prescription, according to the Register. It is part of the state's 'Make America Healthy Again' law. It is still unclear how many pharmacists may choose to sell the drug.

Read about more Iowa laws that go into effect July 1st HERE.