A bill for an act requiring inmates to be paid the Iowa minimum wage for labor performed in or while under the custody of an institution under the control of the Iowa department of corrections.
Impact
The bill's implementation would represent a significant policy shift within the Iowa correctional system, enabling inmates to earn actual wages for their work rather than receiving a nominal allowance. This has implications for financial support post-release, allowing inmates to save money that can be utilized for various purposes such as re-entry into society or paying child support. Furthermore, it may instigate a reevaluation of work programs within correctional facilities and how they align with ethical labor standards.
Summary
Senate File 464 mandates that inmates are to be compensated at Iowa's minimum wage for any labor performed while in the custody of institutions managed by the Iowa Department of Corrections. Previously, the law allowed the director of the department to pay an allowance deemed appropriate, which was not classified as a wage arising from an employment relationship. This legislation seeks to transform how inmate labor is compensated, ensuring that inmates receive payment commensurate with state wage laws.
Contention
Critics of the bill may argue that implementing a minimum wage for inmate labor could impose financial burdens on correctional facilities, potentially leading to higher operational costs. There are also concerns about the rationale behind compensating inmates at the same rate as free labor, which could cause contention regarding the nature of inmate work and the programs that rely on such labor. Additionally, the potential for deductions from wages for court-ordered obligations could hinder the financial benefits intended by the bill.
A bill for an act relating to inmates, including requiring inmates to be paid the minimum wage for labor performed in or while under the custody of an institution under the control of the department of corrections, and the automatic restoration of the right to vote.
Minimum wage for all inmates and residents of state correctional institutions and county jails or houses of correction and making an appropriation. (FE)
Minimum wage for all inmates and residents of state correctional institutions and county jails or houses of correction and making an appropriation. (FE)
A bill for an act creating the better caths for Iowa Act including a review of the use and reimbursement of certain catheters under the Medicaid program.
An act relating to eliminating certain exemptions from the minimum wage and overtime, including the tipped minimum wage; increasing the minimum wage; and requiring that inmates receive the minimum wage for work performed
A bill for an act relating to underground storage tanks, including repealing the Iowa comprehensive petroleum underground storage tank fund and eliminating the Iowa comprehensive petroleum underground storage tank fund board, making appropriations, and including effective date and transition provisions. (Formerly SF 2327, SSB 3177.) Effective date: 04/19/2024, 07/01/2024.
A bill for an act relating to the duties of the director of the department of corrections, the board of corrections, superintendents, and district directors. (Formerly HSB 111.) Effective date: 07/01/2025.