Iowa Code Title XV. Judicial Branch and Judicial Procedures [Chs. 595-686] § 659.2. Libel--retraction--actual damages

In any action for damages for the publication of a libel in a newspaper, free newspaper or shopping guide, or for defamatory statements made on a radio or television station, if the defendant can show that such libelous matter was published or broadcast through misinformation or mistake, the plaintiff shall recover no more than actual damages, unless a retraction be demanded and refused as hereinafter provided. Plaintiff shall serve upon the publisher at the principal place of publication or upon the owner of a radio or television station at the owner's principal place of business a notice specifying the statements claimed to be libelous, and requesting that the same be withdrawn.