Iowa House Bill HF556

Iowa 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/2/23
• Refer: 5/4/23

Caption

A bill for an act requiring vehicle identification information to be provided in a no-contact or protective order, making penalties applicable, and including effective date provisions.(Formerly HF 178.)

Impact

The proposed legislation would significantly impact existing state laws concerning the issuance and enforcement of no-contact orders and protective orders in Iowa. By obligating individuals under such orders to submit detailed vehicle information to the clerk of court within a specified timeframe, the bill aims to streamline the process of tracking and enforcing these orders. Failure to comply with this requirement could lead to potential contempt of court charges, emphasizing the seriousness with which the state views compliance for protective measures.

Summary

House File 556 (HF556) aims to enhance the enforcement of protective orders and no-contact orders by requiring defendants or respondents to provide specific vehicle identification information. This bill mandates that a protective order include identification details of vehicles owned or operated by the defendant, including make, model, year, color, and license plate number. The intention behind this provision is to increase accountability and facilitate law enforcement's ability to monitor compliance with these orders.

Contention

Debate surrounding HF556 may arise from concerns about privacy rights and the implications of forcing individuals to provide personal vehicle information. Opponents might argue that such provisions could overreach, infringing upon the rights of defendants while potentially complicating legal proceedings. Furthermore, the enforcement mechanisms established under this bill—penalties for non-compliance—can be seen as a point of contention between advocates for victims’ rights and civil liberties organizations seeking to protect individual freedoms.