This bill establishes a state minimum hourly wage specifically for direct care professionals in Iowa. It amends existing law to set the minimum wage for these workers at $20.00 per hour, effective July 1, 2026. Additionally, for direct care professionals who have not completed 90 days of employment, the minimum wage will be set at $19.10 per hour. The bill defines direct care professionals as individuals providing supportive services and care, including personal care and basic health care services, to individuals with illnesses or disabilities.

The bill also makes several amendments to existing legal language regarding employer definitions and the enforcement of wage regulations. It updates the reference year for the federal Fair Labor Standards Act from 2007 to 2026 and clarifies that a franchisor is not considered an employer of a franchisee or their employees under certain conditions. Furthermore, it specifies that the director of the department of inspections, appeals, and licensing will adopt rules to implement the new provisions, and it ensures that the chapter will be enforced according to existing labor laws.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 91D.1