This bill establishes a new section under Iowa law regarding the treatment of adoptive parent employees. It mandates that employers treat employees who adopt a child up to six years of age in the same manner as biological parents of newborns concerning employment policies, benefits, and protections for the first year following the adoption. The bill defines adoption as the permanent placement of a child by various authorized entities, including the department of health and human services and licensed agencies.
Additionally, the bill clarifies that while adoptive parents are entitled to the same benefits as biological parents, they are not entitled to disability leave unless they meet the qualifying criteria under their employer's disability policies. The bill also outlines the definitions of "employer" and "employee" as per existing Iowa law, ensuring that the provisions apply to the appropriate parties. Violations of this chapter may result in civil penalties of up to $500 per pay period for each infraction.