New laws now in effect in Iowa

Rep. Tedd Gassman (R-Scarville) released information on a few notable bills that were passed during the 2016 legislative session which go into effect on July 1, 2016.
 
“I believe this past session we were able to pass laws that protect Iowans and give them the opportunity to make family life more affordable, upward mobility more likely and employment easier to find,” said Gassman.  “I look forward to meeting with Iowans over the coming months and gather their input for the next legislative session.”
 
According to Rep. Gassman, the following is a brief list of bills that will take effect July 1:
 
Senate File 453 – Telepharmacies
This law will increase access to pharmacists and medication in rural areas of Iowa where pharmacies can be scarce.  The new law will help Iowa businesses to grow and expand while also allowing those in rural Iowa to obtain the medications they need with shorter drive times.
 
House File 2278 and Senate File 2191 – Human Trafficking
These laws establish an office in the Department of Public Safety to oversee and coordinate efforts to combat human trafficking.  They also extend the statute of limitations for kidnapping and human trafficking committed on a person who is under 18, to 10 years after the person turns 18.
 
Senate File 2218 – Opioid Antagonist
This law allows emergency medical professionals to obtain a supply of opioid antagonists (such as Narcan), to be administered in the event of a drug overdose. Narcan and other drugs like it, can delay an overdose long enough for first responders to get the victim necessary help.
 
House File 493 – Emergency Assistance
This law prohibits cities or counties from enacting ordinances that penalize a resident who calls for emergency assistance if the person who made the call reasonably believes it was necessary.
 
Senate File 2301 – 529 Plans Sponsored by Non-Profits
This law allows tax-exempt, non-profit organizations to open and contribute to 529 College Savings Plans for individual beneficiaries.  This will help families plan for their children’s future and higher education.
 
A more detailed list of laws can be found at www.iowahouserepublicans.com.