IDVA Legislative Update

The Iowa General Assembly concluded its legislative session, passing key measures to support our service members, expand educational access, and adjust specialized licensing structures. The following updates outline bills that have officially crossed the Governor’s desk to become law.

From Our Iowa Secretary of State

Veterans For Voting - Help Keep Iowa Safe for Democracy!

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Veterans For Voting

Signed into Law: Effective July 1, 2026

• Expanding County Commissioner Eligibility (SF 93): This new law broadens the eligibility requirements for serving on local county commissions of veterans affairs. It allows current or honorably discharged members of the National Guard or federal reserve components to serve as county commissioners or executive directors, even if they do not meet the standard definition of a "veteran" under traditional Iowa Code. This change brings fresh perspective and service experience to local county operations.
• 100% Disabled Veteran Tuition Waiver (HF 2491): In a major victory for families of fully disabled heroes, this legislation requires Iowa Regent institutions (including the University of Iowa, Iowa State University, and the University of Northern Iowa) to waive 100% of tuition and mandatory fees for any eligible, admitted veteran who has a permanent, service-connected disability rating of 100%. To qualify for the waiver, all other available federal and state sources of financial assistance—such as the federal Pell Grant or VA education benefits—must be exhausted first.

Discounted Lifetime Licenses

• Lifetime Fur Harvester Fees (SF 2471): Signed by the Governor on June 2, 2026, this legislation directly supports disabled sportsmen and women across the state. The new law sets a flat, permanent fee of just $5 (plus a standard processing fee) for a lifetime fur harvester license. This rate is exclusively available to Iowa residents who served on federal active duty and sustained a service-connected disability during their military service.