Iowa Code Title III. Public Services and Regulation [Chs. 80-122C] § 86.17. Hearings--presiding officer--venue

1. Notwithstanding the provisions of section 17A.11, the workers' compensation commissioner or a deputy workers' compensation commissioner shall preside over any contested case proceeding brought under this subchapter, or chapter 85, 85A, or 85B in the manner provided by chapter 17A. The deputy commissioner or the commissioner may make such inquiries in contested case proceedings as shall be deemed necessary, so long as such inquiries do not violate any of the provisions of section 17A.17.

2. Hearings in contested case proceedings under this subchapter and chapters 85 and 85A shall be held in the judicial district where the injury occurred. By written stipulation of the parties or by the order of a deputy workers' compensation commissioner or the commissioner, a hearing may be held elsewhere. If the injury occurred outside this state, or if the proceeding is not one for benefits resulting from an injury, hearings shall be held in Polk county or as otherwise stipulated by the parties or by order of a deputy workers' compensation commissioner or the workers' compensation commissioner.