IA HF578

Converts the Office of Consumer Advocate from a division within the Iowa Department of Justice to an independent agency, while maintaining its location at the same site as the Utilities Commission

Transfers appointment authority for the Consumer Advocate from the Attorney General to the Governor, who must select from three candidates submitted by a committee of the Secretary of Agriculture, Auditor of State, and Treasurer of State, subject to Senate confirmation

Changes the Consumer Advocate's term from serving at the pleasure of the Attorney General to a fixed five-year term

Requires the Consumer Advocate to regularly report to the oversight committee (Secretary of Agriculture, Auditor of State, and Treasurer of State) regarding office activities

Terminates the term of the current Consumer Advocate on the effective date of the Act, requiring a new appointment under the revised process