This bill establishes a framework for providing employment benefits to public safety employees and volunteers in cities and counties in Iowa. It defines public safety employees as those employed as police officers, firefighters, or emergency medical care providers, while public safety volunteers include reserve peace officers, volunteer firefighters, and emergency medical care providers. The bill stipulates that individuals working or volunteering at least 32 hours per week will be considered full-time employees for the purpose of receiving employment benefits, which encompass various forms of insurance and retirement benefits.

To fund these benefits, the bill creates a local public safety employment benefit fund, which will be managed by the Department of Management. The department is tasked with establishing rules for cities and counties to document and submit the costs associated with these benefits. Additionally, the bill appropriates necessary funds from the state general fund starting July 1, 2025, to cover the costs of the mandated benefits. The bill also clarifies that the funds generated are intended to meet any state mandates included within the legislation, ensuring compliance from political subdivisions.