Iowa Officials Invited to Attend Open Meeting Law Training

By Andi Anderson

Iowa public officials will have the opportunity to meet new state training requirements and improve public trust through Open Meeting and Open Records workshops hosted by Iowa State University Extension and Outreach Community and Economic Development this winter.

Under House File 706, all newly elected or appointed officials are now required to complete state-approved training on Iowa’s Open Meeting and Open Records laws. This includes city and county officials, board and commission members, municipal staff, and extension council members. The course fulfills Iowa’s legal requirement and is approved by the Iowa Public Information Board.

Virtual training sessions are scheduled for November 20, December 3, 4, 10, 11, 16, and 18, with multiple time slots available to accommodate participants. Each two-hour interactive session will provide clear guidance on Iowa Code Chapters 21 and 22, known as the state’s “sunshine laws.”

Participants will learn how to properly post meeting notices, prepare agendas, conduct closed sessions, and manage access to public records. The training emphasizes practical, real-world application to help officials follow the law while improving communication with the public.

“These laws are designed to keep government open and information accessible,” said Sara Shonrock, community development specialist with ISU Extension and Outreach. “When officials understand the rules, it builds confidence and trust on both sides of the table.”

The registration fee for the course is $50 per participant, and advance enrollment is required. Interested participants can register through the Open Meeting and Open Records webpage.

For more information, contact Sara Shonrock at sshonroc@iastate.edu, or direct media inquiries to Esther Crompton at eecrompt@iastate.edu. These sessions provide essential knowledge for all Iowa officials committed to transparent and accountable governance.

Photo Credit: iowa-state-university