Iowa can do more to reduce workforce barriers

By: John Hendrickson, Edward Timmons

Outlets: Iowa Capital Dispatch

Published: February 20, 2026

Words: 611

Last Updated: 2 weeks, 5 days ago

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The need for more qualified workers is a bipartisan issue in Iowa. Regardless of a rural or urban setting, workforce is still a concern for many employers and communities. State policymakers have been responsive to this concern, and they have actively been easing regulatory burdens in recent years. This includes reducing barriers to employment and ensuring that unnecessary roadblocks do not deter individuals from securing meaningful work.

In 2020, Iowa passed landmark occupational licensing reform, …

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