Iowa Statewide Rule
Iowa Minimum Wage Local Preemption Statute
Key Facts
- Legal Reference
- Iowa Code 331.301(6) preempts wage ordinances
- Penalties
- Statewide minimum wage $7.25 per hour
- Nullified Higher Polk,
- Nullified higher Polk, Linn, Johnson rates
- Public-sector Employer Wages
- Public-sector employer wages remain locally controlled
Summary
Iowa Code 331.301(6) preempts counties and cities from adopting minimum wage rates that exceed the Iowa state minimum wage of $7.25 per hour.
A city shall not adopt, enforce, or otherwise administer an ordinance, motion, resolution, or amendment providing for any terms or conditions of employment that exceed or conflict with the requirements of federal or state law relating to a minimum or living wage rate, any form of employment leave, hiring practices, employment benefits, scheduling practices, or other terms or conditions of employment.
Full Breakdown
House File 295, codified at Iowa Code section 331.301(6) and section 364.3, prohibits counties and cities from adopting any ordinance, motion, resolution, or amendment that sets minimum wages or other terms and conditions of employment exceeding state or federal law. The 2017 law nullified higher minimum wage ordinances in Polk, Linn, Johnson, and Wapello counties. Iowa's minimum wage remains tied to the federal floor of $7.25 per hour. Local governments retain authority over public-sector wages they directly pay.
Violations & Penalties
Local ordinances setting higher minimum wages are void; county or city enforcement is barred by state law.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can Iowa cities set a higher minimum wage?
What is Iowa's current minimum wage?
Sources
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