Iowa 2025-2026 Regular Session

Iowa House Bill HF591

Introduced
2/25/25  

Caption

A bill for an act relating to expedited contempt of court appeal proceedings and including effective date provisions.

Impact

This bill will substantially affect state laws governing court procedures related to contempt. By mandating that appellate courts hold hearings within twenty-four hours of an appeal notice, HF591 intends to establish a timely review system, thereby ensuring that contempt judgments are scrutinized promptly. The introduction of electronic filing options and dedicated emergency review panels will also enhance the efficiency of the judicial process. These changes aim to balance the need for effective court functioning with the protection of individual rights.

Summary

House File 591, known as the Expedited Contempt Appeal Act, is designed to streamline the appeal process for individuals found in contempt of court. The legislation acknowledges the potential for immediate incarceration or penalties following a contempt ruling and responds by allowing defendants to file an appeal within four hours of such rulings. This aims to improve access to due process for individuals who may be unjustly penalized for minor infractions or accidental disruptions in a courtroom setting.

Contention

Discussions surrounding HF591 may raise questions regarding the implications of expedited judicial processes and the potential for misuse by individuals seeking to evade responsibility. Critics may argue that such rapid appeals could overwhelm the appellate system, while supporters might contend that they ensure fair and just treatment of individuals facing punitive contempt sanctions. Overall, the bill seeks to safeguard individuals’ legal rights without compromising court efficiency.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

IA HF2695

A bill for an act relating to and making appropriations to the judicial branch, and including effective date provisions.

IA SSB3190

A bill for an act relating to and making appropriations to the judicial branch, and including effective date provisions.

IA HF2454

A bill for an act relating to the exercise of religion, and including effective date and applicability provisions.(Formerly HSB 614.)

IA HF2348

A bill for an act regulating litigation financing contracts, and including effective date and applicability provisions.

IA HF232

A bill for an act relating to probate proceedings, including fiduciary and trustee duties, and including applicability provisions. (Formerly HSB 106.) Effective date: 07/01/2023. Applicability date: 07/01/2023.

IA SF2275

A bill for an act requiring notice to the general assembly in appellate actions regarding the constitutionality of a statute and including effective date and applicability provisions. (Formerly SSB 3098.) Effective date: 04/19/2024.

IA HSB614

A bill for an act relating to the exercise of religion, and including effective date and applicability provisions.(See HF 2454.)

IA HF2517

A bill for an act relating to trusts, including irrevocable trusts, trust petitions, and trust proceedings. (Formerly HF 2344.) Effective date: 07/01/2024.

IA HF177

A bill for an act creating a special motion for expedited relief in actions involving the exercise of the right of freedom of speech and of the press, the right to assemble and petition, and the right of association, and including applicability provisions.(Formerly HSB 42.)

IA HF644

A bill for an act relating to criminal law including depositions, conditional guilty pleas, prosecution witnesses who are minors, and juror qualifications, and including effective date provisions. (Formerly HSB 156.) Effective date: Enactment, 05/26/2023, 07/01/2023.

Similar Bills

CA AB2338

Courts: contempt orders.

MT HB725

Create contempt of constitution law

MT SB457

Revise laws regarding legislative subpoenas

MT SB374

Generally revise contempt of court laws

LA SR199

Requests Louisiana State Law Institute to study whether the granting of attorney fees should be allowed in civil contempt of court proceedings.

PA HB1419

In protection from abuse, further providing for contempt for violation of order or agreement.

LA HB438

Provides relative to contempt proceedings when the Department of Children and Family Services is providing support enforcement services

LA HB871

Provides relative to summonses for contempt for nonpayment of child support orders or medical support orders