Governor Branstad Signs New Uniform Power of Attorney Bill in Iowa
Well, it was a long time coming, but following unanimous passage in the Iowa House and Iowa Senate, today Governor Branstad signed the Uniform Power of Attorney bill into law. The Uniform POA is a substantial and long-overdue replacement to the current power of attorney statute (Iowa Code chapter 633B). The statute is applicable to ALL power of attorney documents, whether signed before or after the effective date of July 1, 2014. Some key points from the Uniform act: (1) provides for improved remedies in event of abuse/misuse of authority; (2) clear guidance for agents; (3) addresses powers involving co-agents; (4) specific and general authority of agents; and (5) statutory form to use for individuals without attorney access.