Iowa Minimum Wage Preemption Law: Statewide Employment Preemption Rules (2026)

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?

No. Iowa Code 331.301(6) and 364.3(12) preempt cities and counties from setting minimum wages above the state level.

What is Iowa's current minimum wage?

Iowa's minimum wage matches the federal $7.25 per hour. State law has not increased it since 2008.

Sources

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Iowa Minimum Wage Local Preemption Statute