Frequently Asked Questions - Iowa Administrative Rules

Can the public see my comments?

The site does not display your comments at this time. Comments are publicly available by submitting a request to the agency rule coordinator.

How Do Citizens Find Out About the Adoption of New Rules?

- New rules proposed by an agency must be published in the Iowa Administrative Bulletin 35 days before the rules takes effect..

How do I Comment?

To comment on the entire notice, click the "Comment Now" button on the Notice page. Alternatively, you can comment on specific parts of the notice by clicking the text within the notice.

What is a Notice of Intended Action?

Proposed new rules are reviewed and approved by the administrative head of each agency. The rules are then filed in an action which is called the “Notice of Intended Action.” The rules are filed with the Governor’s Administrative Rules Coordinator. The Administrative Rules Coordinator is responsible for coordinating all rules that are proposed by the Governor’s executive branch agencies. This part of the process usually takes about fifty to sixty five days to complete.

What is the Iowa Administrative Bulletin and Where can I find it?

The Iowa Administrative Bulletin that publishes administrative rules that are both Noticed and Adopted and Filed Rules .
The bulletin is published bi-weekly and may be found at Iowa Administrative Bulletin (IAB)

What Law if Any Governs New Rules?

-Section 17A of the Iowa Code governs adoption of new rules.

What's an Administrative Rule

A rule means each statement of general applicability that implements, interprets, or prescribes law or policy, or that describes the organization, procedure or practice requirements of any agency. The term includes the amendment or repeat of an existing rule.

Where are my comments sent?

Comments are sent to the administrative rule contact of the specific notice, directly to the organization agency, or to administrative-rules@iowa.gov

Why Must State Agencies Adopt New Rules?

1. To keep up with current State law.
2. To make necessary changes to existing programs.
3. To stay in compliance with Federal rules and regulations.

Why should I comment?

When a notice is posted you have a chance to comment and suggest changes before the rule is adopted. Once the rule is adopted it is law.