This bill mandates that employers provide reasonable accommodations to employees experiencing medical conditions related to pregnancy or childbirth, upon request and with the advice of the employee's healthcare provider. Reasonable accommodations are defined to include actions that enable the employee to perform their job effectively, such as modifying the worksite, acquiring or modifying equipment, restructuring job duties, and adjusting work schedules. However, it clarifies that accommodations should not impose an undue hardship on the employer's business.
Additionally, the bill establishes civil penalties for employers who fail to comply, with fines of up to $750 for violations. The director of the Iowa office of civil rights is tasked with implementing and enforcing these provisions, including the authority to inspect employment records and interview relevant personnel. Importantly, the bill specifies that compliance with its standards will not be subject to collective bargaining agreements.