Criminal Justice (Drug Policy)

This bill appropriates $1.2 million from the state general fund for the Iowa Department of Public Safety to create a drug interdiction program in partnership with the Iowa National Guard, effective July 1, 2025-June 30, 2026. It directly affects state public safety agencies by authorizing up to 12 full-time equivalent positions (10 drug interdiction specialists and 2 criminal analysts) to combat illicit drug trafficking within Iowa. Key provisions include funding for salaries, support, and equipment, with unspent funds carrying over to the next fiscal year instead of reverting. The program’s concrete policy change is the establishment of this dedicated state-local law enforcement partnership focused on disrupting drug trafficking networks.

HF 78 reduces penalties for possessing small amounts of marijuana by making possession of half an ounce or less (not offered for sale) a simple misdemeanor punishable by a $500 fine. It repeals an existing law that previously imposed harsher penalties, including aggravated misdemeanors or class B felonies, for similar small-quantity offenses. This change directly affects individuals caught with minimal personal-use marijuana quantities. The bill simplifies penalties that previously varied significantly based on the amount possessed.

This bill appropriates $1.2 million for the 2025-2026 fiscal year to create a drug interdiction program within Iowa's Department of Public Safety, partnering with the Iowa National Guard. The program will hire 12 full-time equivalent staff (10 drug interdiction specialists and 2 criminal analysts) to combat illicit drug trafficking across the state. Funds not spent by June 2026 can carry over into the next fiscal year. The measure directly affects state law enforcement agencies by providing dedicated personnel and resources to address drug trafficking.

HF 699 clarifies that certain drug-checking tools and materials are not considered "drug paraphernalia" under Iowa law. It specifically exempts fentanyl/xylazine test strips, drug-checking equipment, and related materials used by harm reduction organizations for testing substances. The bill protects individuals and organizations from criminal charges, civil penalties, or loss of housing for using these tools or conducting drug checks. It also allows state funds, including opioid settlement money, to support these harm reduction activities.