Iowa 2023-2024 Regular Session

Iowa House Bill HF2570

Introduced
2/19/24  
Engrossed
3/6/24  
Introduced
2/19/24  
Refer
3/7/24  
Engrossed
3/6/24  
Enrolled
4/23/24  
Refer
3/7/24  
Passed
5/1/24  
Enrolled
4/23/24  

Caption

A bill for an act authorizing a county attorney to be issued a professional permit to carry weapons. (Formerly HF 2083.) Effective date: 07/01/2024.

Impact

If enacted, HF2570 would significantly impact state laws related to the carrying of firearms by legal professionals. By allowing county attorneys to carry weapons at all times, the bill acknowledges the risks associated with their roles, particularly in high-stakes legal environments. This change could lead to an increased presence of armed legal professionals in various situations, potentially affecting both the way they interact with individuals during legal proceedings and the overall perception of safety in public spaces where they operate.

Summary

House File 2570 is a legislative proposal that seeks to grant county attorneys and assistant county attorneys the authority to be issued professional permits to carry weapons. The bill amends existing law regarding who can be issued such permits, expanding the list to include these legal professionals. This legislation is designed to enhance the safety and effectiveness of county attorneys as they perform their duties, which may involve interactions with criminal cases and law enforcement duties.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HF2570 appears to be mixed among legislators and advocacy groups. Proponents argue that issuing permits to county attorneys aligns with public safety principles, enhancing the preparedness of legal representatives in their law enforcement roles. Conversely, there are concerns raised by opponents regarding the potential implications of arming legal professionals in terms of public perception and the increased likelihood of weapon use in non-threatening situations.

Contention

Notable points of contention regarding HF2570 revolve around the implications of allowing county attorneys to carry weapons. Critics worry about the message this sends regarding the necessity of firearms in the legal profession and the potential for misuse. Discussions in legislative meetings highlighted concerns about the adequacy of training and regulations associated with the issuance of these permits, in addition to broader implications for community safety and the nature of legal proceedings.

Companion Bills

IA HF2083

Similar To A bill for an act authorizing a county attorney to be issued a professional permit to carry weapons.(See HF 2570.)

Previously Filed As

IA HF2083

A bill for an act authorizing a county attorney to be issued a professional permit to carry weapons.(See HF 2570.)

IA HSB166

A bill for an act authorizing a judicial officer to be issued a professional permit to carry weapons.(See HF 530.)

IA HSB168

A bill for an act authorizing a judicial officer to be issued a professional permit to carry weapons.

IA HF530

A bill for an act authorizing a member of the general assembly, judicial officer, attorney general, deputy attorney general, or an assistant attorney general to be issued a professional permit to carry weapons. (Formerly HSB 166.)

IA HF2586

A bill for an act relating to school security, including the use of school security personnel by school districts and authorizing school employees to be issued professional permits to carry weapons, and including effective date provisions. (Formerly HSB 675.) Effective date: 04/19/2024, 07/01/2024.

IA HF924

A bill for an act relating to the minimum age for acquiring or carrying weapons. (Formerly HSB 262.) Effective date: 07/01/2025.

IA HF671

A bill for an act establishing the professional counselors licensure compact. (Formerly HF 494, HF 90.) Effective date: 07/01/2023.

IA HF654

A bill for an act relating to the carrying, transportation, and possession of and educational programs about weapons, and including effective date provisions. (Formerly HSB 173.)

IA HSB173

A bill for an act relating to the transferring, carrying, transportation, and possession of weapons by certain persons and in certain locations, and including effective date provisions.(See HF 654.)

IA HF675

A bill for an act relating to money transmission services. (Formerly HF 431, HSB 128.) Effective date: 07/01/2023.

Similar Bills

IL SB3671

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IL SB2087

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CA SB605

State attorneys and administrative law judges: compensation.

CA AB1163

Minors: power of attorney to care for a minor child.

CA SB1109

Adoption.

CA SB710

District attorneys: conflicts of interest.

CA AB2083

Public utilities: rates.

CA AB894

Attorney General: directors and employees: exemption from civil service.