Iowa House Bill HJR2

Iowa 2025-2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/15/25
• Refer: 1/15/25

Caption

A joint resolution designating the Iowa darter as the official state fish for the state of Iowa.

Summary

House Joint Resolution 2 designates the Iowa darter (Etheostoma exile) as the official state fish of Iowa. The resolution includes legislative findings describing the fish as uniquely tied to Iowa, noting that it is the only animal named after the state, that it is colorful and native to Iowa waters, and that it serves as an indicator of clean water and healthy habitat. It also highlights the species’ cold-water tolerance and its darting behavior as symbolic of Iowa’s character. In addition to the symbolic designation, the resolution directs the director of the department of administrative services to obtain and display pictures and other representations of the Iowa darter in the state historical museum. It also requires the editor of the Iowa official register to include a picture and commentary about the fish alongside the state rock, flower, bird, and tree. As a joint resolution, it changes state recognition and official references rather than creating a regulatory program or imposing substantive obligations on private parties.

Impact

The bill would amend Iowa’s official state symbols by adding the Iowa darter as the state fish and by requiring related displays and publication in state government materials. It affects state administrative duties for the department of administrative services and the Iowa official register, but it does not alter criminal, tax, environmental, or wildlife management statutes. Its legal effect is primarily ceremonial and educational, reinforcing the state’s symbolic identity and public presentation of official state emblems.

Sentiment

The available context suggests generally favorable sentiment. The bill was introduced with supportive explanatory language emphasizing the fish’s uniqueness, beauty, and connection to Iowa’s natural heritage and water quality. Its last recorded action was a subcommittee recommendation for passage, which indicates committee-level support and no recorded opposition in the provided materials. No votes or hearing transcripts are included, so there is no evidence of organized dissent in the available record.

Contention

There is little visible contention in the provided materials, likely because the measure is symbolic rather than substantive. The only potential point of discussion is whether the Iowa darter is the best representative state fish and whether the state should add another official symbol. The bill’s findings frame the fish as a marker of clean water and habitat quality, but no opposing arguments, fiscal concerns, or policy objections appear in the record provided.