On June 6, 2025, the Governor of Iowa signed SF 615, introducing work requirements for Medicaid and public aid programs. The act also establishes an information technology fund and a public assistance modernization fund, while modifying the Medicaid for employed people with disabilities program to guide rollouts.

Exemptions apply to individuals under 19 or 64 and over, those certified as disabled by the U.S. Social Security Administration, caretakers of children under 6, participants in substance abuse programs, and those with high-risk pregnancies approved by the Iowa Department of Health and Human Services (HHS). Able-bodied adults who can work should do so. Medicaid must focus on those with genuine needs.

SNAP currently requires at least 80 hours of work per month for eligible individuals to maintain benefits. Unspent funds from the Public Assistance Modernization Fund will transfer to the Information Technology Fund by June 30, 2025. The bill adjusts the Medicaid for Employed People with Disabilities Program, increasing the asset threshold for married couples from $13,000 to $24,000. If federal approval for work requirements is revoked, the state will seek an alternative, compliant plan.

The Iowa Senate passed the bill 33-15 on March 25, 2025, and the House 61-35 on March 26, 2025, largely divided by party. Effective date provisions ensure a step-by-step implementation, with Iowa HHS directed to request a federal waiver for Medicaid work rules. The measure aims to balance financial discipline with support for vulnerable people, but its success depends on federal approval and ongoing compliance.