House adopts limits on gubernatorial emergency powers with amendment
Summary
House File 2694, including an amendment restricting certain gubernatorial emergency powers and adding a legislative mechanism to end proclamations, was approved by the House; supporters framed it as restoring balance, while some members warned it could reduce flexibility in future emergencies.
Representative Wills introduced House File 2694 and an amendment (H8186) that narrows certain gubernatorial emergency authorities, including language protecting houses of worship from mandatory closure during some emergencies and creating a legislative mechanism to terminate emergency proclamations when the legislature or Legislative Council so votes. Wills said the amendment and bill were intended to restore constitutional balance: "This is Iowa restoring the balance our constitution always intended."
Some members urged caution, arguing emergency powers are necessary to protect public safety during unknown future crises; Representative Crochet said he would "lean on the side of safety" and voted no on the amendment. The amendment passed and the bill passed on a recorded vote (66 ayes, 23 no, 11 absent). The measure now moves to the Senate.
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