Iowa House Bill HF332

Iowa 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/15/23
• Engrossed: 3/7/23
• Refer: 3/8/23
• Enrolled: 5/9/23
• Passed: 6/1/23

Caption

A bill for an act relating to the disposition of real property belonging to the state by the director of the department of administrative services. (Formerly HSB 143.) Effective date: 07/01/2023.

Impact

The bill significantly impacts state law by delineating the authority of the Department of Administrative Services in managing state-owned property. It sets out the conditions under which real property can be sold, including specific provisions for property acquired with state funds, ensuring that sale proceeds are appropriately allocated. This reflects a concerted effort to streamline the processes associated with state property management while also integrating checks and balances through legislative involvement.

Summary

House File 332 is an act that addresses the processes and authorizations regarding the disposition of real property owned by the state and its agencies. The bill amends existing laws to clarify the authority of the Director of the Department of Administrative Services regarding the sale or transfer of state property. Importantly, it stipulates that the director must secure a constitutional majority approval from both houses of the general assembly as well as the governor's endorsement before any property can be disposed of, ensuring a level of legislative oversight in these transactions.

Sentiment

Discussions surrounding HF332 were largely supportive, with a unanimous vote of 48-0 in favor of the bill, indicating a strong consensus among legislators. The broad backing suggests that lawmakers view the bill as a necessary modernization of existing property disposition practices within state agencies. The receptiveness to the bill also reflects a growing acknowledgment of the need for clarity and efficiency in state operations related to property management.

Contention

While the sentiment around HF332 was primarily positive, the potential for contention lies in the centralized authority granted to the director of the Department of Administrative Services. Some might argue that this consolidation of power could lead to less transparency or community input regarding the disposal of public lands. However, the requirement of legislative approval serves to lessen these concerns by ensuring that such decisions undergo thorough scrutiny before being finalized.