2025 Session Last amended: 1989 session

§ 11A.09 — Standard of Care

Plain-Language Summary

This section establishes the standard of care — the prudent-investor rule — that the State Board of Investment and investment managers must meet when managing public funds. They must act with the care, skill, and diligence of a prudent person familiar with investment matters. The standard focuses on the overall portfolio rather than individual investments.

Practical Notes
The prudent-investor standard is the same legal standard that applies to trustees managing private trust funds. Board members and investment managers who violate this standard can be held personally liable for investment losses. This standard allows the board to invest in a diversified portfolio including stocks, bonds, and alternative assets to maximize long-term returns.