The LIO serves as the primary contact for persons seeking information about the actions and procedures of the Iowa General Assembly. It instructs and informs the public about the Legislature and about the legislative process. The kinds of people who use the LIO's services come from all walks of life. They are legislators, legislative constituents, members of interest groups, attorneys, members of the press, and representatives from other agencies and the general public.
The kinds of services provided by the LIO are varied. Daily during session, the LIO handles inquiries requesting status and identification of bills, information about legislators, legislative schedules, explanations of legislative procedures, and referrals to other agencies of state and federal government. The LIO distributes single copies of bills, amendments and other legislative documents upon request. A computer terminal which accesses the legislative computer is available in the LIO for public use. The LIO also offers a photography service to legislators at a nominal charge.
During the legislative session, the LIO publishes and distributes "Today in the House" and "Today in the Senate," the daily schedule of legislative activity. During the interim between legislative sessions, the LIO records a message daily with legislative schedules. To hear the recorded schedule, telephone 515/281-5869.
The LIO publishes a variety of brochures describing the legislative process and Iowa history. The office also serves as an outlet for nonpartisan materials from other state agencies. The LIO also features an outreach program, through which the staff visit with community and school groups about the legislative process, Iowa history and the Capitol Building. Through the outreach program, the LIO attempts to take the Legislature to those who cannot come to it.
Legislators are encouraged to refer their constituents to the LIO and to utilize its services themselves. Located on the ground floor of the Capitol Building in Room 16, the Legislative Information Office is open year-round and is staffed by its director and two legislative information officers.
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© 1995 Cornell College and League of Women Voters of Iowa
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Last update: 1995
URL: /DOCS/GA/76GA/LSB/LegHandbook/NonLegAgencies/LSBInfoServ/LIO.html
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