The Iowa Supreme Court has unanimously upheld a 2018 state law that prohibits the use of public funds for providing pornography to individuals incarcerated in Iowa’s prison system. The 7-0 ruling, announced Friday, June 26, 2026, rejected a challenge brought by a group of 12 inmates who argued the ban violated their constitutional rights.

Court Upholds 2018 Ban

The Iowa Supreme Court’s decision in the case, identified as Gregory v. State of Iowa, affirmed the constitutionality of the 2018 law. This legislation specifically bars the Iowa Department of Corrections from using any funds to "distribute or make available any commercially published information or material to an inmate when such information or material is sexually explicit or features nudity."

The court’s ruling cited the right of prison officials to protect both staff and inmates from potential sexual harassment and violence, which officials have linked to the unlawful trading of pornographic contraband. State officials have also contended that the restriction aids in preventing sexual harassment, reducing the circulation of contraband, and enhancing safety within correctional facilities.

Court documents presented during the case indicated that inmates had engaged in trading these materials, which reportedly led to violent assaults. The documents also showed instances where inmates used the materials to harass and threaten female staff. Furthermore, the presence of pornographic materials in prisons was noted to hinder rehabilitation efforts for sex offenders. Officials stated that restricting these materials from sex offender inmates proved difficult, contributing to the decision to implement a complete ban on pornography in prisons.

Attorney General Applauds Decision

Iowa Attorney General Brenna Bird applauded the unanimous decision, stating that pornography "doesn't belong in prison, and certainly not on the Iowa taxpayers' dime." Bird further commented, "If pornography is considered contraband for our troops during boot camp it absolutely should not be provided at the taxpayers' expense to those who are in prison. That's just common sense, and I'm grateful for the Iowa Supreme Court's unanimous decision affirming that."

Bird had previously called the prisoners' argument that they possess a constitutional right to access pornography in prison "incorrect." The Attorney General's office highlighted the ruling as a victory for the state, reinforcing the 2018 law's intent to prevent public funds from being used for such materials.

Inmate Challenge and Constitutional Arguments

The challenge to the 2018 law was initiated by a class of 12 inmates across the state. These inmates argued that the prohibition on sexually explicit content infringed upon their constitutional rights, specifically citing free speech rights. While the Supreme Court acknowledged that prisoners retain constitutional rights, it clarified that these rights are subject to greater restrictions within the correctional system.

The court’s justification for its ruling indicated that prison officials have the authority to implement measures designed to maintain order and safety within correctional facilities. This includes regulating access to materials that could contribute to an unsafe environment or impede rehabilitation efforts.

Key Facts

  • The Iowa Supreme Court issued a 7-0 ruling on Friday, June 26, 2026.
  • The ruling upheld a 2018 Iowa law banning public funds for pornography in state prisons.
  • The case was identified as Gregory v. State of Iowa.
  • A class of 12 inmates challenged the law, citing constitutional rights.
  • Attorney General Brenna Bird praised the decision.
  • The court cited concerns about sexual harassment, violence, contraband trading, and hindered rehabilitation for sex offenders.