New Iowa laws go into effect July 1

Rep. Tedd Gassman (R-Scarville) released information on a few bills that were passed last session, and go into effect July 1, 2017.  
“We had a very productive legislative session this past year and addressed a number of issues that are important to Iowans.  It’s clear that Iowans are getting a better deal now than they were before,” said Gassman.  “I look forward to meeting with Iowans over the coming months and gathering their input for next year’s legislative session.”
The following is a brief list of bills that will take effect July 1:
School District Flexibility Fund
This law will give school districts additional flexibility to address the specific needs their schools have.  The law allows schools to create a Flexibility Account where the district can transfer unused funds from other sources, if those funds have already been used to fund its designated purpose and has a carry-over balance.  The “flex” funds can then be used to enhance local programs and provide more educational opportunities.
Texting and Driving
This law will improve road safety by expanding Iowa’s texting and driving ban to a primary offense.  It allows for a peace officer to stop or detain a person solely for texting and driving, but makes clear that drivers are allowed to use their phone as a  GPS.
24/7 Sobriety and Distracted Driving
This law also makes our roads safer by addressing impaired driving.  The new law implements a 24/7 sobriety program for persons convicted of drunk or drugged driving and requires them to submit to twice daily alcohol or controlled substance testing at set times and implements penalties for failing the tests.  The law also makes it class “C” felony if a person is driving distracted (using electronic devices) and kills another.
 Synthetic Drugs
This law keeps dangerous synthetic drugs off the streets.  House File 296 allows the Iowa Board of Pharmacy to temporarily designate certain chemical compounds as Schedule I drugs, to stay ahead of synthetic drug manufacturers and gives the Legislature more time to time to take action.  Other changes will make it easier to prosecute those who create and sell synthetic drugs.
Palmer Amaranth
This bill puts Palmer Amaranth on the primary noxious weed list and the list of invasive plants that are prohibited to import, sell, or distribute in Iowa.  Palmer Amaranth is an edible flowering plant that crowds out crops such as corn, soybeans, and cotton.