Open Meeting Training Mandated for New Elected Officials

In July, Iowa lawmakers enacted significant updates to the state’s open meetings law through House File 706, with a strong emphasis on training and accountability. Newly elected or appointed public officials after July are now required to complete training on open meetings and open records laws, with the Iowa Public Information Board responsible for offering or approving training. Incumbent officials are exempt from the mandate but may still benefit from the training. The legislation also strengthened enforcement by increasing penalties for violations. Fines for standard violations were raised from $100–$500 to $500–$2,500, while knowing violations now carry penalties between $5,000 and $12,500.

To learn more, visit the Iowa Public Information Board or watch ECICOG’s Turbo Talk with Attorney Kevin Olson here. ECICOG is looking at becoming an authorized open meeting trainer for our region. Stay tuned for additional information later this fall.