IA HSB729

Amends Iowa Code Section 135C.34 to allow medication aides certified in other states to become certified in Iowa by passing only the medication aide challenge examination, eliminating the requirement to also pass the certified nurse aide examination.

Requires the Department of Inspections, Appeals, and Licensing to establish a free online medication aide certification registry where approved examination providers can submit proof of successful certification.

Directs the department to adopt rules allowing entities other than community colleges to administer department-approved medication aide challenge examinations.

Applies to medication aides working at residential care facilities, nursing facilities, intermediate care facilities for the intellectually disabled, and intermediate care facilities for persons with mental illness.

Rescinds 11 specific administrative rules effective July 1, 2026, and requires the department to make conforming rule changes to implement the Act.