Representative Chip Baltimore is no longer the Chair of the House Judiciary Committee.

In a statement released Monday morning by Iowa Speaker of the House Linda Upmeyer, Representative Baltimore was removed as Chair of the Judiciary Committee following his OWI arrest this past Friday in Ames. In her statement, Upmeyer said “Serving as a committee Chairman is a privilege that requires a higher level of trust and responsibility.  Drinking and driving is unacceptable behavior that endangers the lives of all Iowans who wish to travel our roads safely. Representative Baltimore’s actions were clearly irresponsible and he is being held accountable.”

Upmeyer has named Representative Zach Nunn as Baltimore’s replacement as Judiciary Chair for the remainder of the legislative session. Representative Baltimore also issued a statement regarding the change.

“From the moment I made the horrible decision, I have taken full responsibility for it and accepted any and all consequences resulting from it. Speaker Upmeyer and I have spoken several times over the last few days, and I wholeheartedly agree with and support her decision concerning the chair position of the House Judiciary Committee, as it is the right thing to do.  I will work with Chairman Nunn to make the transition as smooth as possible.”

The changes will take effect immediately. Baltimore has served as Judiciary Chair since 2013. He is currently serving his fourth term as representative of District 47.

Baltimore was arrested by Ames Police early Friday morning on an OWI charge and possession of a firearm while under the influence.