Iowa House Passes Bill Restricting Governor’s Powers in Disaster Emergencies

Bill limits emergency powers of Iowa governors

House Republicans, with the support of a handful of Democrats, have voted to limit the powers future governors would be able to exercise in emergencies. The bill would bar governors from ordering the closure of churches or businesses and it would require legislative approval of any election-related changes. Governors could not shut down churches, private […]

Bill limiting governor's power during disaster emergencies clears Iowa House

House Republicans move forward with a bill limiting the governor's power during a disaster emergency.This proposal comes after policies put in place during the

Iowa House passes bill restricting governor’s powers in disaster emergencies

Iowa's governor would not have the ability to close houses of worship or businesses or change election laws in response to a disaster under legislation approved by the Iowa House on March 10, 2026. (Photo by Susan J. Demas/Michigan Advance)