House File 2680 amends Section 135C.34 of the Iowa Code to streamline the certification process for medication aides from other states. The bill allows individuals who are already certified as medication aides in another state to obtain certification in Iowa without the need to complete additional requirements, such as prior employment in Iowa or passing both the certified nurse aide and certified medication aide examinations. The Department of Licensing will establish a medication aide certification registry on its website, which will facilitate the submission and access of proof for successful completion of department-approved certification examinations without any associated fees.

Additionally, the bill introduces a new section, 135C.34A, which mandates the Department to adopt rules governing the administration of medications in various care facilities. These rules will include provisions for administering challenge examinations by community colleges and other competency evaluation programs, as well as stipulations for individuals seeking to take the challenge examination without completing a medication aide course. The bill also rescinds several existing administrative rules effective July 1, 2026, and requires the Department to make necessary conforming changes to implement the new regulations.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 135C.34
Enrolled: 135C.34