A joint resolution proposing an amendment to the Constitution of the State of Iowa relating to the right of the people to a clean environment.

Iowa House Joint Resolution 3 (HJR3) is a proposed amendment to the Iowa Constitution that would establish the right of every person to a clean and healthy environment. This includes access to pure water, clean air, a stable climate, and ecologically healthy habitats. The amendment also declares that the state's public natural resources—such as soils, waters, air, flora, fauna, climate, and public lands—are the common property of the people, both present and future generations. As trustees of these resources, the state is tasked with conserving, maintaining, and restoring them for the health and benefit of all. Any infringements upon these rights would be subject to strict scrutiny. ([legiscan.com](https://legiscan.com/IA/text/HJR3/2025?utm_source=openai))

While specific media coverage on HJR3 is limited, the bill's introduction reflects a growing national trend of recognizing environmental rights in state constitutions. Such measures are often praised for empowering citizens to hold governments accountable for environmental protection. Advocates argue that constitutional amendments can provide a robust framework for environmental stewardship and intergenerational equity.

Opponents of HJR3 may express concerns about the potential for increased litigation and the impact on economic development. Critics might argue that broad environmental rights could lead to legal challenges that hinder infrastructure projects and agricultural practices. There may also be apprehension about the ambiguity of terms like "stable climate" and "ecologically healthy habitats," which could be interpreted in various ways, leading to legal uncertainties.