Iowa House Bill HF2131

Iowa 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/24/24
• Refer: 1/24/24

Caption

A bill for an act creating an Iowa institute for public policy.

Impact

The proposed institute will be governed by a twelve-member board that includes state representatives, senators, and appointees from higher education and public sectors. This board will be responsible for adopting bylaws, overseeing the employment of an executive director, and facilitating ongoing dialogue between state policymakers and academic experts. Funding for the institute will come from appropriations by the state general assembly and public sources, although it will not accept private funding unless it originates from long-term commitments made by nonprofits or foundations. This stipulation aims to maintain the independence and objectivity of the research produced by the institute.

Summary

House File 2131 proposes the creation of the Iowa Institute for Public Policy, structured as a nonprofit corporation under Iowa law. The primary objective of this institute is to furnish policymakers with timely research, information, and analytical support to aid in making informed decisions regarding critical long-term issues that impact the state of Iowa. By establishing this institute, the bill seeks to improve governmental effectiveness through enhanced policy analysis and collaboration with academic institutions.

Contention

Discussions surrounding HF2131 may involve debates on the autonomy of state governance and the role of collaborative research in policy-making. Some legislators might express concerns that the establishment of such an institute could lead to increased bureaucratic processes or reliance on academic research, potentially at the expense of direct political decision-making. Meanwhile, proponents may argue that enhancing evidence-based policymaking is essential for addressing complex issues effectively, thereby creating a stronger and more informed legislative framework.