Governor Reynolds signs bills changing courts, e-bikes, real estate and medical licensing

May 1, 2026 - 02:40

Governor Kim Reynolds has signed a wide-ranging batch of bills into law, touching on issues from education and health care to banking and electric bicycles. Among the new measures are changes to the state's court system, updates to e-bike regulations, and new rules for real estate and medical licensing.

One of the bills alters how certain judicial appointments are made, giving the governor more influence in the selection process. Supporters say it will make the courts more accountable to voters, while critics argue it threatens judicial independence.

Another new law clarifies where electric bicycles can be ridden. Under the updated rules, e-bikes are now explicitly allowed on most bike paths and multi-use trails, unless local governments decide to restrict them. The law also sets speed limits for different classes of e-bikes.

In real estate, a new measure requires agents to disclose more information about potential flood risks to buyers. The law aims to prevent homeowners from unknowingly purchasing property in flood-prone areas.

Medical licensing also saw changes. One bill makes it easier for out-of-state doctors to get licensed in Iowa, a move intended to address workforce shortages in rural hospitals. Another measure expands the scope of practice for nurse practitioners, allowing them to treat patients without a supervising physician in more situations.

The bills take effect on July 1, with a few exceptions.