As of today, July 1, 2025, a new law in Iowa has come into effect that enhances penalties for assaults targeted at law enforcement officers and first responders. This law was a key legislative priority for Attorney General Brenna Bird during the previous session.
“Monday, Iowa’s law takes significant strides to enhance the protection of our law enforcement heroes, who bravely don their badges and risk their lives for our safety,” stated Attorney General Bird. “We want these dedicated individuals to understand that here in Iowa, we support our police officers.”
This legislation safeguards law enforcement officers, first responders, and corrections officers by increasing penalties for assaults as follows:
- Up to 10 years in prison if the assault involves a dangerous weapon or is intended to cause serious injury.
- Up to 5 years when the assault results in bodily injury.
- A mandatory minimum sentence of 7 days in jail for all other assaults against first responders.
Moreover, the law escalates the penalty for spitting on law enforcement officers, first responders, or corrections officers to that of assault with bodily fluids.
