Iowa House increases penalties for open records violations

The Iowa House has passed a bill aimed at improving transparency in government. This legislation focuses on training local officials about open meetings and records laws and increases fines for violations. This is the second year lawmakers have pursued this issue. A similar bill passed last year but was vetoed by Governor Kim Reynolds due to concerns about an amendment. House File 706, passed on Monday, keeps many of the same changes but corrects the issues that caused the veto. Under the new bill, fines for violating open meetings laws will rise significantly. Fines will range from $500 to $2,500 for regular violations and $5,000 to $12,500 for knowing violations. Currently, fines are lower. The bill also requires removal of government officials who repeatedly break these laws. Newly elected local officials must complete training on open records laws. The Iowa Public Information Board will provide at least one approved course for free. Rep. Gary Mohr introduced the legislation, partly due to ongoing issues in Davenport. He highlighted a 2023 building collapse in the city that resulted in three deaths. Mohr expressed frustration over the city withholding inspection reports related to the collapse. Residents have faced challenges accessing public records, with some even being sued by the city. Mohr emphasized the need for accountability among public officials. Rep. Daniel Gosa, a member from Davenport, supported the bill and called for accountability from local leadership. The legislation will now proceed to the Iowa Senate for further discussion.