This bill establishes a new section in Iowa law that mandates railroad corporations to provide employees with at least four occurrences of leave per academic year to attend school-sponsored activities for their children, provided these activities cannot be scheduled during nonwork hours. Employees must submit a written request for leave at least 14 calendar days in advance, although in emergency situations, only 24 hours' notice is required. The railroad corporation may require documentation of the school-sponsored activity and has the discretion to offer either paid or unpaid leave. Importantly, the bill prohibits any form of retaliation against employees for taking this leave.

Additionally, the bill outlines that violations of this provision could result in civil penalties of up to $500 per pay period for each infraction, as enforced by the director of the department of inspections, appeals, and licensing. This legislation aims to support employees in balancing their work responsibilities with their children's educational activities while ensuring they are protected from adverse actions by their employers for exercising this right.