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HF 538

A bill for an act relating to employment of persons with disabilities.

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Josh Turek

HF 538 promotes competitive, integrated employment for Iowans with disabilities, ensuring fair wages and requiring state agencies to support job access and inclusivity.

Tabled until future meeting.
#disabilities #laborandemployment
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Bill Summary · HF 538

Summary of Bill HF 538: Employment of Persons with Disabilities

Bill Overview

Bill Number: HF 538
Title: A bill for an act relating to employment of persons with disabilities
Status: Tabled until future meeting
Introduced: February 20, 2025
Classification: Bill
Subject: Disabilities, Labor and Employment

Purpose and Intent

The primary aim of HF 538 is to enhance the employment opportunities for persons with disabilities in Iowa. The bill establishes a policy that competitive and integrated employment should be the preferred option for individuals with disabilities who are of working age. This policy is intended to promote full participation in the social and economic life of the state.

Key Provisions

  • Employment Policy: The bill declares that competitive and integrated employment is the first choice for serving working-age individuals with disabilities.
  • State Agency Directive: All state agencies are required to implement this policy effectively in their programs and services aimed at assisting persons with disabilities in obtaining employment.
  • Wage Protections: Employers are prohibited from paying employees with disabilities less than the minimum wage as outlined in Iowa Code chapter 91D, effective July 1, 2026. This aligns with the federal Fair Labor Standards Act, which allows for certain exceptions to minimum wage for individuals with disabilities.
  • Definition of Integrated Setting: The bill defines an "integrated setting" as a community-based environment where individuals with disabilities interact with nondisabled individuals to the same extent as their nondisabled peers.

Impact

  • Affected Individuals: The bill primarily impacts persons with disabilities seeking employment, ensuring they have access to competitive wages and integrated work environments.
  • Employers: While the bill encourages the hiring of individuals with disabilities, it does not mandate that employers give hiring preference to these individuals.
  • State Agencies: All relevant state agencies will need to adjust their programs and services to align with the new policy directive.

Procedural Aspects

  • Legislative Actions:
    • February 20, 2025: Bill introduced and referred to the Labor and Workforce Committee.
    • February 25, 2025: Subcommittee formed, consisting of members Kniff McCulla, Cooling, and Meggers.
    • February 26, 2025: Bill tabled until a future meeting.

Conclusion

HF 538 represents a significant step towards improving employment conditions for persons with disabilities in Iowa. By establishing a clear policy favoring competitive and integrated employment, the bill aims to foster greater inclusivity in the workforce while ensuring fair compensation for individuals with disabilities.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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