The week started out busy, as I floor managed three bills on the House floor on Monday. But by the time the week ended we seem to be waiting for the Senate to pass the gaming bill.

The three bills that I floor managed were bills that I had already worked through the committee process and have discussed in previous articles.  Two of the three bills were on insurance reform that will help to decrease the cost of insurance.

One of the bills that we have passed this session increases the penalties for Animal Fighting. SF 2249 amends Iowa Code Chapter 717D relating to Animal Contest Events. The bill makes it illegal to possess or own an animal to be engaged in a contest event conducted in Iowa or any other state.  Persons may not be parties to a commercial transaction involving the transfer or sale of such animals.  In addition, the bill also criminalizes possession, ownership or manufacture of animal contest devices, and parties to their commercial transaction for transfer or sale.

Animal fighting (particularly dog fighting and cock fighting) have become increasingly prevalent in the State of Iowa.  As other states increase their penalties for these activities, promoters and participants move to Iowa where the penalties are not as strict.  Throughout the past several years, legislation has been introduced to increase the penalties for such events.  Iowa is currently one of only three states that do not make this type of activity a felony.

SF 2249 would make participation in the above-mentioned acts a Class D felony - punishable by up to 5 years in prison and a fine of $750 to $7,500.  In addition, the bill would increase the penalty for being a spectator at such events to an aggravated misdemeanor - punishable by up to 2 years in prison and a fine of $500 to $5,000. Current law makes participation in any of these activities a serious misdemeanor.

The bill passed both chambers unanimously and has been sent to the Governor for his consideration.

This past week the Iowa House passed Senate File 2269, better known as the HAVA bill. This bill makes changes to the law relating to elections and voter registration.  The main provisions for the bill bring Iowa into compliance with the federal Help America Vote Act, (HAVA).  The bill also makes changes related to absentee ballot returns and requests.  There are limitations placed on who can return a voted absentee ballot.  The bill also provides a postage paid envelop for absentee ballots. Finally the bill creates an absentee ballot application receipt to ensure absentee ballot requests are delivered to the commissioner.  This is a good compromise bill and deserves the governor’s signature.

Until next week,

Tom Sands