Iowa 2023-2024 Regular Session

Iowa House Bill HF415

Introduced
2/22/23  
Introduced
2/22/23  

Caption

A bill for an act relating to interpretation of law in administrative and judicial proceedings under the Iowa administrative procedure Act.(See HF 645.)

Impact

This legislation would have significant implications for how administrative agencies operate within Iowa's legal framework. By removing the standard deference previously afforded to agencies, HF415 could lead to more rigorous judicial reviews of agency actions. It is expected that courts will weigh agency interpretations less heavily, which could result in greater accountability of agencies and a shift in the balance of power between state agencies and individuals. Such changes could potentially empower citizens to challenge administrative decisions with increased success.

Summary

House File 415 (HF415) seeks to amend the Iowa Administrative Procedure Act by altering the manner in which state laws are interpreted in administrative and judicial settings. The bill proposes that, in cases involving agency actions, courts and presiding officers must not defer to interpretations made by agencies themselves. Instead, they are mandated to interpret statutory provisions de novo, meaning they will assess the meaning independently rather than relying on the agency's interpretation. This shift aims to enhance judicial oversight over agency actions and interpretations, ultimately benefitting individuals by curtailing the scope of agency powers.

Contention

While proponents of HF415 argue that it safeguards individual liberties by placing constraints on agency power, critics contend that it may undermine the efficiency and expertise of administrative agencies. Opponents fear that diminished deference could lead to inconsistent interpretations across various courts, complicating the legal landscape and affecting the ability of agencies to execute their mandates effectively. The debate encapsulates a broader contention regarding the balance between governmental authority and personal freedoms in administrative law.

Companion Bills

IA HF645

Similar To A bill for an act relating to interpretation of law in administrative and judicial proceedings under the Iowa administrative procedure Act.(Formerly HF 415.)

Previously Filed As

IA HF36

A bill for an act relating to interpretation of law in administrative and judicial proceedings under the Iowa administrative procedure Act.(See HF 853.)

IA HF853

A bill for an act relating to interpretation of law in administrative and judicial proceedings under the Iowa administrative procedure Act. (Formerly HF 36.)

IA SF2039

A bill for an act providing for intervention by members of the general assembly in proceedings for judicial review of agency action under the Iowa administrative procedure Act. Effective date: 07/01/2026

IA SB167

Alabama Administrative Procedure Act; standard of judicial review revised regarding agency's interpretation of law

IA SB70

Administrative Procedures Act; establishing guidelines for interpretation of statutes or administrative rules. Effective date.

IA SB70

Administrative Procedures Act; establishing guidelines for interpretation of statutes or administrative rules. Effective date.

IA SB639

Administrative Procedures Act; establishing guidelines for interpretation of statutes or administrative rules. Effective date.

IA SB639

Administrative Procedures Act; establishing guidelines for interpretation of statutes or administrative rules. Effective date.

IA HB5060

Relating to the operation and administration of and practices and procedures related to proceedings in the judicial branch of state government.

IA HSB760

A bill for an act concerning administrative rules relating to the uniform rules on agency procedure and including effective date provisions.(See HF 2744.)

Similar Bills

WA HB1174

Concerning court interpreters.

CT HB06932

An Act Concerning The Establishment Of A State Interpreting Standards Board.

MS HB1248

Court interpreters; revise regulations for.

NJ S2267

Requires health insurers, SHBP, SEHBP, and NJ FamilyCare coverage for sign language interpreter services for covered individuals who are deaf or hard of hearing.

NJ A4331

Requires health insurers, SHBP, SEHBP, and NJ FamilyCare coverage for sign language interpreter services for covered individuals who are deaf or hard of hearing.

CA AB1916

Courts: court interpreters.

TN HB1040

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 4; Title 63; Title 68, Chapter 1, Part 1 and Title 71, Chapter 4, Part 21, relative to sign language interpreters.