Opinion ID: 1722019
Heading Depth: 1
Heading Rank: 2

Heading: Iowa's Implied Consent Law.

Text: Chapter 321J allows chemical testing of bodily substances from persons suspected of driving while intoxicated. See Iowa Code § 321J.6. The legislature has, however, limited the circumstances under which such a test may be demanded. The withdrawal of bodily substances and the chemical test must be administered at the written request of a peace officer having reasonable grounds to believe that the [defendant] was operating a motor vehicle in violation of section 321J.2. Id. § 321J.6(1). In addition, one of six specified conditions must exist. The condition at issue here is found in section 321J.6(1)(a): A peace officer has lawfully placed the person under arrest for violation of section 321J.2. Id. § 321J.6(1)(a) (emphasis added). As we recently discussed in State v. Palmer , the term peace officer has a special meaning under chapter 321J. Palmer, 554 N.W.2d at 862. The pertinent portion of the statutory definition of peace officer is contained in section 321J.1(7)(e), which includes: e. Any other law enforcement officer who has satisfactorily completed an approved course relating to motor vehicle operators under the influence of alcoholic beverages at the Iowa law enforcement academy or a law enforcement training program approved by the department of public safety. Iowa Code § 321J.1(7)(e). The legislature's decision to require officers to have special training in order to invoke implied consent reflects its desire to protect citizens from indiscriminate testing or harassment. Palmer, 554 N.W.2d at 866-67. We turn now to the specific issues raised by the State.