Iowa 2023-2024 Regular Session

Iowa Senate Bill SF256

Introduced
2/9/23  
Introduced
2/9/23  
Refer
6/5/23  
Refer
2/9/23  

Caption

A bill for an act relating to the prosecution of criminal offenses committed by law enforcement officers.

Impact

The proposed changes will impact current laws regarding the prosecution of law enforcement officers, particularly concerning how actions that lead to death are handled legally. Under this bill, if an officer's use of deadly force is deemed legally justified by the attorney general, no other prosecuting agency is allowed to initiate an unreasonable use of force case against them. This stipulation raises questions about the potential for accountability and the checks on law enforcement actions, which critics believe could result in less oversight in cases of fatal encounters.

Summary

Senate File 256 aims to amend how criminal offenses committed by law enforcement officers are prosecuted in Iowa. The bill specifically empowers the attorney general to prosecute criminal offenses committed by law enforcement officers that result in the death of another individual, even in cases where the county attorney does not request this action. This change is significant as it allows for independent prosecution, which could lead to greater accountability in cases involving deadly force by officers.

Contention

The bill has sparked a range of opinions, as it introduces complexities in how justice is administered in cases of law enforcement-related fatalities. Supporters might argue that it helps protect officers acting in life-threatening situations, while opponents could contend that it provides too broad a shield for potential misconduct. The balance struck between protecting law enforcement and ensuring accountability is a central point of contention surrounding the bill.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

IA SF267

A bill for an act relating to the Iowa law enforcement academy council including the revocation or suspension of certifications of law enforcement officers and reserve peace officers, and administrative investigations under the peace officer, public safety, and emergency personnel bill of rights.

IA HSB289

A bill for an act relating to the Iowa law enforcement academy council including the revocation or suspension of certifications of law enforcement officers and reserve peace officers, and administrative investigations under the peace officer, public safety, and emergency personnel bill of rights, and including effective date and retroactive applicability provisions.

IA SF84

A bill for an act relating to the criminal offenses of sexual exploitation of a minor and stalking committed while utilizing a technological device, the enticement and sexual exploitation of minors and the dissemination of obscene material to minors and the utilization of undercover law enforcement officers or agents posing as minors, and providing penalties. Effective date: 07/01/2023.

IA SB380

Relating to the investigation and prosecution of criminal offenses and to certain recordings created by peace officers during an investigation or other law enforcement activity; creating a criminal offense.

IA SSB3018

A bill for an act relating to the revocation or suspension of the certification of a law enforcement officer.

IA SB129

Law Enforcement Officers; civil and criminal immunity expanded

IA HSB550

A bill for an act relating to the revocation or suspension of the certification of a law enforcement officer.(See HF 2559.)

IA SF260

A bill for an act relating to background investigations for certification or recertification as a law enforcement officer.

IA SB517

Criminal Prosecutions; immunity from certain criminal prosecutions against law enforcement officers whose threat or use of force is justified or otherwise lawful; provide

IA HB202

Law enforcement officers; civil and criminal immunity from liability, further provided

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