This bill establishes new requirements for student dress code policies in public schools, charter schools, and innovation school zones in Iowa. It mandates that the board of directors of each public school district adopt a dress code policy for students in grades K-12 that promotes appropriate attire for an educational setting, personal hygiene, neatness, and modesty. The bill outlines minimum standards for these policies, including requirements for clothing to be clean, in good repair, and adequately covering the body, while prohibiting attire that promotes illegal activities or exposes undergarments and midriffs. Additionally, it allows school districts to implement additional dress code requirements and uniform policies, provided they comply with constitutional protections.

The bill also emphasizes the need for clear enforcement procedures for dress code violations, including potential consequences and accommodations for students based on religious beliefs or medical needs. It requires that dress code policies be communicated to students and parents at the start of each school year and made publicly available on school district websites. Importantly, the bill ensures that these policies are applied uniformly and without discrimination. The provisions of this bill will take effect for school years beginning on or after July 1, 2026.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 256E.7, 279.58