Iowa House Bill HF2300

Iowa 2025-2026 Regular Session

• Filed/Introduced: 2/6/26
• Introduced: 2/6/26
• Refer: 2/6/26

Caption

A bill for an act limiting the authority of counties and cities to regulate hemp production on land zoned for specific purposes.

Summary

House File 2300 would limit local government control over where hemp production may occur in Iowa. It prohibits counties and cities from adopting or enforcing ordinances or regulations that would regulate, restrict, or prohibit hemp production by a USDA licensee in areas zoned for commercial or industrial use. The bill is narrowly focused on local zoning authority and applies only to hemp production by USDA licensees, as defined in Iowa law. It does not appear to change state hemp licensing rules themselves; instead, it preempts local governments from using county or city ordinances to block hemp operations in the covered zoning districts.

Impact

If enacted, HF 2300 would amend Iowa law by adding new sections to the county and city code chapters that expressly bar local regulation of hemp production in commercially or industrially zoned areas. The practical effect would be to reduce county and municipal discretion over land-use decisions involving hemp producers, while preserving local authority outside those zoning categories and leaving state-level hemp regulation intact.

Sentiment

Based on the bill text and the absence of recorded committee debate or votes, the available record suggests the bill is straightforward and policy-focused rather than highly contentious in the materials provided. Its framing indicates support for hemp businesses and a preference for uniform statewide treatment of hemp production sites over local restrictions.

Contention

The main point of contention is likely the balance between state preemption and local zoning authority. Supporters would favor protecting hemp producers from inconsistent county or city restrictions in commercial and industrial zones, while opponents may argue that local governments should retain the ability to regulate land use and address neighborhood or planning concerns. No specific objections or amendments are reflected in the available transcripts or vote history.