IA HF279

Extends the duration of a governor's disaster emergency proclamation from 30 to 60 days, and transfers authority to extend, rescind, or amend the proclamation from the governor to the general assembly (or legislative council when not in session, limited to one 60-day extension)

Prohibits disaster emergency measures from infringing on constitutional rights, restricting religious interactions with hospital patients, using digital surveillance without consent, deploying drones or AI for enforcement, or limiting licensed health professionals' practice scope or prescribing authority

Changes Department of Health and Human Services authority during public health disasters from ordering to only recommending physical examinations, testing, vaccinations, and treatment, with affected individuals retaining ultimate authority to refuse without undue pressure

Limits isolation or quarantine to not exceed the longest usual incubation period for the specific communicable disease, and prohibits mandatory contact tracing or monitoring of persons potentially exposed to contagious diseases

Expands religious exemptions from school immunization requirements to include "sincerely held religious beliefs" rather than only membership in a recognized religious denomination, and makes these exemptions apply during emergencies or epidemics