Iowa House Bill HF667

Iowa 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/14/23
• Refer: 5/4/23

Caption

A bill for an act relating to reimbursement to the state treasury by institutions of higher learning governed by the state board of regents for certain state tort claims, and including retroactive applicability provisions.(Formerly HSB 229.)

Impact

The introduction of HF667 has implications for state laws concerning the financial responsibilities of higher education institutions. By establishing a clear timeline for reimbursement, the bill aims to create fiscal accountability within these institutions, potentially influencing their financial management and budgeting processes. Furthermore, it ensures that the state treasury is reimbursed for any unappropriated expenditures related to these claims, thus safeguarding state funds and taxpayer dollars.

Summary

House File 667 addresses the issue of reimbursement to the state treasury by institutions of higher learning governed by the state board of regents for certain tort claims. The bill mandates that after a state payment is made to a claimant for claims related to the conduct of employees in athletic departments, the respective institution must reimburse the state treasury within a specified timeframe. This reimbursement must occur by June 30 of the following fiscal year after the payment is made, ensuring that the state is compensated for any financial liabilities stemming from such claims.

Contention

There could be contention surrounding HF667 based on the financial burden it places on institutions of higher learning. Critics may argue that such reimbursement requirements could lead to financial strain on athletic departments, particularly if they frequently face claims. Additionally, there may be concerns about how the retroactive applicability of the bill affects institutions that had previously relied on different financial protocols. As the bill is designed to apply retroactively to payments made on or after January 1, 2023, institutions may face unexpected financial pressures due to past claims.

Notable_points

The bill's structured approach to the reimbursement process reflects a broader trend in legislative action focusing on fiscal responsibility within state-funded institutions. By clarifying the reimbursement rules, HF667 aims not only to protect the interests of the state treasury but also to potentially reshape how institutions of higher education address their liabilities arising from tort claims.