Iowa-Employment-Licensing

Until 2020, Iowa had no general laws limiting or regulating consideration of criminal history in employment or licensing, though certain occupational licenses were subject to a “direct relationship” standard.  In 2020 a general licensing law enacted a direct relationship standard, defined rehabilitation broadly (and presumed it after 5 years for most crimes), provided for a preliminary determination, and provided for strong due process protections. Previously, the only licenses that were related were in trades taught in the state’s prisons (e.g., electrician, plumber, mechanical, contractor, and barbering licenses).  Pardon relieves all legal disabilities, including public employment disabilities.