The bill authorizes school districts, charter schools, and innovation zone schools in Iowa to employ chaplains or engage volunteer chaplains to provide support and services to students. It amends existing laws by adding provisions that allow these educational institutions to utilize chaplains in a manner similar to the provisions outlined in section 279.87. This new section specifies that the board of directors of a school district can employ chaplains or engage them without compensation, and it establishes guidelines for their qualifications and background checks.

Additionally, the bill stipulates that school boards cannot require chaplains to hold licenses or certifications from the board of educational examiners, ensuring that the employment of chaplains does not replace the roles of licensed school counselors. Importantly, the legislation also prohibits any coercion of students to use chaplain services, maintaining the voluntary nature of these support systems. Overall, the bill aims to enhance student support through the inclusion of chaplains while ensuring that established counseling services remain intact.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 256E.7, 256F.4
Reprinted: 256E.7, 256F.4