IA SSB3020

Amends Iowa Code Section 144B.6 to change the duty of an attorney in fact under a durable power of attorney for health care from "act in accordance with" to "give preference to" the principal's expressed desires.

The attorney in fact's authority cannot be restricted by the principal's desires expressed verbally to third parties or in other documents, unless the durable power of attorney specifically states it is limited and includes those limitations in a separate section.

A declaration executed under Iowa's life-sustaining procedures Act (Chapter 144A) shall not be interpreted as prohibiting withdrawal of hydration or nutrition provided parenterally or through intubation.

When the principal's desires are unknown, the attorney in fact must act in the principal's best interests, considering overall medical condition and prognosis.