Legislation
Advocacy at the State LevelIntroduction to Advocacy with Iowa Right Life
Mirriam-Webster describes an advocate as the following: one who defends or maintains a cause or proposal; one who supports or promotes the interests of a cause or group; or one who pleads the cause of another.
If you are on this page, we believe you want to be a voice for the voiceless and advocate for the most innocent among us. We hope the overview and chronicle of Iowa laws give insight into just how far we have come.
Iowa Abortion Law
- Abortions are illegal once a fetal heartbeat is detected
- A 24-hour waiting period is required after the ultrasound before an abortion can be performed
- Parental notification must occur before a minor can obtain an abortion
Iowa abortion law provides exceptions for:
- Rape
- Incest
- Fetal abnormality incompatible with life
- Protect the life of the mother
The Abortion Pill
- Webcam abortion is legal in Iowa.
- Requires a call with clinic staff and an ultrasound performed, then the pill can be requested through the United States Postal Service
Abortion pill regulation is a priority of IRTL. We work in collaboration with the Iowa Coalition of Pro-Life Leaders to address legislation to protect the life of the unborn and their mothers, including legislation that regulates abortion pill distribution.
For immediate help in attempting to reverse the abortion pill, call (877) 558-0333.
Existing Pro-Life Laws
Over the years, Iowa Right to Life has actively lobbied in favor of critical pro-life legislation. We believe that the progress made is the result of dedicated organizations and individuals coming together as one unified voice for babies and families. Here is a listing of House and Senate legislation within the last four to five years that subsequently became law. This establishes Iowa’s commitment to safeguard the lives of mothers and babies and create life-affirming options other than abortion.
House File 425
Expansion of the Newborn Infant Act
This law expanded eligible locations for Safe Haven Boxes for parents who want to give up their baby, to do so safely, and with approved places and designated locations that will ensure the baby will be cared for. Key Points:
House File 425
Expansion of the Newborn Infant Act
This law expanded eligible locations for Safe Haven Boxes for parents who want to give up their baby, to do so safely, and with approved places and designated locations that will ensure the baby will be cared for. Key Points:
House File 474
Expansion of the Newborn Infant Act (Safe Haven)
This law refers to the placement of custody under the Safe Haven Act and adds language concerning where and to who the baby would be relinquished, such as an adoption service provider, certified adoption investigator, department (Health and Human Services), first responder, and institutional health facility. Key Points:
House File 474
Expansion of the Newborn Infant Act (Safe Haven)
This law refers to the placement of custody under the Safe Haven Act and adds language concerning where and to who the baby would be relinquished, such as an adoption service provider, certified adoption investigator, department (Health and Human Services), first responder, and institutional health facility. Key Points:
Safe Haven Laws
Safe Haven is an alternative for parents facing uncertainty in caring for a baby. The law prevents legal action against the parent who wants to give the baby up to a safe location anonymously. Key Points:
Safe Haven Laws
Safe Haven is an alternative for parents facing uncertainty in caring for a baby. The law prevents legal action against the parent who wants to give the baby up to a safe location anonymously. Key Points:
Stay in the know.
Get the updates you need to stay on top of the ever changing political landscape.
Iowa Right to Life Voter Resources
Judges Retention Guide
As a pro-life Iowan, it is important to know where candidates stand on the issue of life. IRTL collects information from candidate questionnaires returned to us, and makes the responses available to you as a voter.
Judges Retention Guide and Candidate Position on Issues Relating to Life.
Lobbyist Declarations
IRTL remains vigilant in monitoring legislation that advances pro-life laws in our state. We actively lobby our legislators, encouraging them to write, sponsor, and pass measures that protect and uphold the safety and security of Iowa’s most vulnerable.
You can go to the link below for a list of our declarations. Enter “Iowa Right to Life Committee” as the client. We list our support or opposition based on bill language, the bill’s sponsors, and whether it aligns with or goes against the mission and vision of our organization.