Iowa Administrative Code Agency 497 - Iowa Public Information Board
Here’s a well-structured overview of Agency 497 – Iowa Public Information Board in the Iowa Administrative Code:
📘 Agency 497 – Iowa Public Information Board
The Iowa Public Information Board (IPIB) is tasked with overseeing compliance with the state’s Open Meetings and Public Records statutes (Chapters 21 & 22, Iowa Code). Its administrative rules are organized into 10 chapters, reflecting its mission to enhance transparency and public accountability
🔹 Chapter 1 – Organization & General Administration (497‑1.1 to 1.4)
Defines the board’s composition, meeting frequency (at least quarterly), and quorum requirements (five members) .
Outlines how to request advisory opinions or declaratory orders; only authorized individuals may request and receive written guidance
🔹 Chapter 2 – Complaint Investigation & Resolution (497‑2.1 to 2.4)
Sets procedures for filing complaints alleging violations of Open Meetings & Public Records laws.
Empowers staff to conduct initial reviews, investigations (including subpoenas), and recommend actions.
The board may resolve, dismiss, or initiate formal contested-case proceedings
🔹 Chapter 3 – Declaratory Orders (497‑3.1 to 3.12)
Provides the process for the board to issue binding interpretations of statutes, rules, or orders under its jurisdiction.
Includes requirements for petition filing, notifications, interventions, and board deliberation
🔹 Chapter 4 – Contested Cases (497‑4.1 to 4.29)
Applies when formal hearings are initiated following staff or board action.
Covers standards like interlocutory appeals, final decisions, evidence submissions, appeals, rehearings, and procedural stays .
🔹 Chapter 5 & 6 – Rulemaking (497‑5.1–5.4 & 497‑6.1–6.17)
Chapter 5 governs how any person may petition the board to adopt, amend, or repeal a rule.
Chapter 6 describes the board’s internal rulemaking procedures, including timelines for public comment and administrative coordination
🔹 Chapter 7 – Fair Information Practices (497‑7.1 to 7.14)
Sets out definitions and principles to support public access to records while protecting sensitive/confidential data.
Explains how to request records, office hours, copying fees, confidentiality assertions, and exemptions (e.g., closed-session minutes, attorney work product, privacy or trade‑secret data) .
🔹 Chapter 8 – Open Meetings (497‑8.1 to 8.3)
Lays out board requirements for transparency in its own meetings, including advance notices, agendas, public access, and applicable exceptions .
🔹 Chapter 9 – Waivers from Administrative Rules (497‑9.1 to 9.15)
Allows individuals or entities to petition for a waiver from non-statutory rules if hardship is proven and public interests are protected
🔹 Chapter 10 – Injunction Request Procedure (497‑10.1 to 10.6)
Defines processes for seeking judicial injunctions to enforce compliance with open meeting or public record obligations.
Includes notice to court procedures and interim board review
✅ Summary
Purpose: Enforce transparency laws for public bodies across Iowa.
Tools: Offers guidance (advisory opinions/declaratory orders), investigates complaints, conducts hearings, manages rulemaking, and supports enforcement (e.g., injunctions).
Records Access: Facilitates open records while safeguarding sensitive information; sets clear procedures and fee frameworks.
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