This bill amends Section 96.5 of the Iowa Code to establish disqualification criteria for unemployment benefits related to short-term employment with a fixed end date of 180 days or less. Under the new provisions, an individual will be disqualified from receiving unemployment benefits if they separate from such employment, provided that the department of workforce development confirms several conditions. These conditions include the existence of a written employment contract specifying the end date, acknowledgment of ineligibility for benefits upon conclusion of employment, and assurance that the employer is not using these contracts to circumvent liability under the unemployment benefits chapter.

Additionally, the bill stipulates that employment under this new subsection will not be classified as taxable wages, allowing employers to seek refunds for contributions made for such employment. It clarifies that contracts established under this provision do not waive or release any rights to benefits under the relevant chapter of the Iowa Code. The applicability of this act is limited to employment that begins on or after its effective date.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 96.5