(Des Moines, IA) Iowans on Medicaid could be required to work to receive benefits. The state legislature advanced a proposal requiring 80 hours of work per month for Iowans on state health care expansion. Last month, Governor Kim Reynolds requested a federal waiver to require 100 hours of monthly work. If Governor Reynolds signed the bill into law, those capable of working must meet the 80- or 100-hour threshold to benefit from the Iowa Health and Wellness plan or state Medicaid expansion. Some exemptions would be made for individuals between 19 and 65.
Meanwhile, money spent on DEI initiatives could be restricted in Iowa. The state legislature proposed restricting city, county, and state government entities from spending money on DEI offices or employees. State Republicans argue the law would return agencies and universities to a merit-based system, while Democrats say it keeps the state competitive. If signed into law, the bill would take effect on July 1st.
