under a new bill in the Iowa House. Despite some Republican opposition, a parent who gives birth would be entitled to four weeks of paid leave. A parent who did not give birth would be entitled to one week. Parents who adopt a child will now be entitled to four weeks of paid leave.
EXPANDING SERVICES FOR CHILDREN WITH AUTISM: Children under the Hawki program will be able to get services for autism under a bill that passed the Iowa House.
HOUSE ALLOWS SUPPLEMENTS, LIGHT THERAPY & PROTEIN TO STUDENTS WITHOUT PARENTAL APPROVAL: On a party-line vote, the Iowa House has allowed schools, without parent permission, to provide vitamins and other “supports” to students in a therapeutic classroom. Other “supports” included providing protein foods such as eggs, beef, and bacon and exposing kids to full spectrum light therapy.
NEW PROTECTIONS FROM GIFT CARD FRAUD: Additional protections from theft, forgery, or fraud involving gift cards could become law soon. The bill targets fraudsters who steal gift card information or tamper with gift cards. Penalties can range up to a felony offense that can include up to 10 years in prison, depending on how much is taken.
OPEN CONTAINER CHARGES ON THC BEVERAGES: Drivers will soon be prohibited from having open THC-infused beverages in their vehicles. Under a bill awaiting the Governor’s signature, open THC drinks will be treated the same as open alcoholic containers. If signed into law, drivers caught with an open THC beverage in the car will face the same penalties as those found with open alcohol.