DES MOINES, Iowa - A bill signed by Governor Kim Reynolds Thursday requires licensing boards to issue licenses to out of state applicants who've established residency in Iowa.
It also prohibits licensing boards from using misdemeanor convictions as grounds for denying a license, and requires that plumbers and electricians be licensed unless they have felony convictions that present a public risk.
Reynolds called the new law a “major and meaningful step” in reforming how professionals can obtain licenses to work in Iowa.
The bill, which goes into effect January 1st, waives licensing application fees for applicants with a household income at or below 200 percent of the federal poverty level.
It further extends current licenses for people who work as barbers, beauticians, physical therapists and other business for an additional six months through June 30th, 2021.