Iowa requires waivers from employer COVID-19 vaccine mandates

Iowa has enacted legislation (House File 902) that requires employers to grant waivers to their COVID-19 vaccination requirements under certain circumstances. House File 902 is effective immediately.

Waivers from COVID-19 Vaccination Mandates:

House File 902 states that if employers require employees to receive the COVID-19 vaccine, they must waive the requirement if the employee submits either of the following:

• A statement that receiving the vaccine would be injurious to the health and well-being of the employee or an individual residing with the employee.
• A statement that receiving the vaccine would conflict with the tenets and practices of the employee’s religion.

Unemployment Benefits:

The law also establishes that an employee isn’t disqualified from receiving unemployment benefits if they are terminated for refusing COVID-19 vaccination.

Compliance Recommendations:

Iowa employers should consult legal counsel to discuss the impact of House File 902 on their vaccination policies and practices. Please contact your dedicated service professional with any questions.