The Iowa State Bar Association reported on Apr. 29 that several of its key legislative priorities have advanced during the 2026 session, with some measures already signed into law and others moving through the legislature. The association said these efforts are guided by member input and section expertise, focusing on improving justice administration, updating statutes, and supporting Iowa’s legal infrastructure.
Several proposals backed by the ISBA have moved forward this year. Among them is the Iowa Uniform Family Law Arbitration Act, which creates a framework for arbitration in family law disputes covering agreements, arbitrator qualifications, and enforcement of awards. In probate and trust law, new legislation clarifies medical decision-making authority for durable powers of attorney to help families and practitioners with health care decisions. An omnibus probate and trust bill addressing estate administration timelines, contested trust procedures, and attorney fee provisions is also enrolled.
Real estate lawyers will see changes to declarations of value requirements that aim to streamline filings. Public construction project legislation has been updated to clarify notice requirements and timelines for contractors and claimants. Business law developments include new options for expedited filings with the Secretary of State’s Office—such as one-hour or same-day service—and simplified partnership conversions to limited liability companies.
Family law initiatives include a bill allowing suspension of child support in certain juvenile court cases when custody arrangements change. Another proposal seeks clearer definitions around joint custody responsibilities.
The ISBA continues advocacy beyond individual bills by supporting funding for indigent defense services, judicial branch operations, legal services programs serving vulnerable Iowans, as well as resources for the Secretary of State’s Office. The association opposes measures it says could undermine fairness in the legal system such as arbitrary damage caps or absolute immunity legislation.
According to the official website, the Iowa Bar Association promotes diversity, equity and inclusion within the legal profession; utilizes its Des Moines headquarters for administrative operations; honors excellence through awards; serves over 6,500 lawyers and judges licensed in Iowa; supports members’ professional growth; is governed by a board elected from judicial districts; provides resources aimed at enhancing practice standards across communities; advances justice through legislative work; and is recognized as America’s oldest voluntary state bar association.