141—2.16(2C) Privileges and immunities.

1. 2.16(1)  Immunity of ombudsman. Except for removal from office as provided in Iowa Code chapter 66 or for employment-related claims, no civil action or other proceeding shall be commenced against the ombudsman or any member of the staff for any official act or omission performed pursuant to the provisions in Iowa Code chapter 2C, unless the act or omission is actuated by malice or is grossly negligent.

2. 2.16(2)  Testimonial privilege. The ombudsman or any member of the staff shall not be compelled to testify in any judicial or administrative proceeding with respect to any matter involving the exercise of the ombudsman’s official duties, except as may be necessary to enforce the provisions of Iowa Code chapter 2C.

   [Adopted and published 10/26/16 pursuant to Iowa Code section 2C.9(5), effective 11/1/16]