Attorney General Brenna Bird on Tuesday outlined her office’s legislative priorities for the 2026 session during a news conference in the historic Iowa Supreme Court chamber at the State Capitol, focusing on victim protection, public safety and support for law enforcement and the courts. Bird was joined by law enforcement officials, prosecutors, and victim advocates in the Iowa Supreme Court chamber at the Iowa State Capitol to make the announcement. Bird says, “As a mom and a prosecutor, I know how important it is to protect victims and hold criminals accountable. Today I am announcing legislative proposals to catch violent criminals and bring them to justice and to help victims of crime. We want Iowa to be a place where crime victims are prioritized, law enforcement and prosecutors are respected, and courts, judges and Iowans are safe.” One of Bird’s proposals, called Katie’s Law, would require DNA collection from individuals arrested for felony or aggravated misdemeanor offenses. Supporters say the measure would help solve crimes more quickly and prevent repeat offenses. Another proposal would expand victims’ rights by allowing extensions of no-contact orders, shortening notification timelines for sex offenders, and permitting victim counselors to share information with law enforcement when there is an immediate risk of harm. Bird also proposes measures to protect judicial officers and attorney general staff by strengthening penalties for threats and doxxing and allowing certain personnel to obtain professional carry permits. A fourth bill would curb abusive use of defense subpoenas that can discourage victims and witnesses from testifying. These bills will begin their legislative journeys in the Judiciary Committees, chaired in the Senate by Sen. Jason Schultz (R-Schleswig), and in the House by Rep. Steve Holt (R-Denison). Rep. Craig Williams (R-Manning), also serves on the House Judiciary Committee.
