Iowa

Iowa

Iowa

Iowa

Iowa state laws surrounding agriculture include the Migrant and Seasonal Agricultural Worker Protection Act (MSPA) that establishes employment and living standards. Another important law is the Migrant and Seasonal Farm Workers Program (MSFW), which provides job information and training, referrals, and other vocational support. 

In order to house migrant agricultural workers, sites are required to apply for permits in advance of occupancy. This involves reasonable living standards.

• The Migrant and Seasonal Agricultural Worker Protection Act (MSPA)
• The Migrant and Seasonal Farm Workers Program (MSFW)

Complaints surrounding concerns for the Migrant Labor Program can be filed online. This form involves personal information (e.g., name, address, respondent, complaint details). This is public information.

https://hhs.iowa.gov/sites/default/files/portals/1/userfiles/252/migrant%20labor%20camp%20complaint%20form.pdf

The Iowa Department of Health and Human Services is responsible for maintaining living and employment standards. However, they are only required to investigate after receiving specific complaints for a site- this means inspections are rare. Additionally, this information can be made public, meaning an employer could see. 

As such, there are frequent farms with unsafe living conditions, including lack of bedding, toilet paper, cups, hot water, etc. 

https://www.usatoday.com/story/news/investigations/2022/12/28/migrant-farm-workers-face-poor-housing-conditions-lack-regulations/10955474002/

Proteus, Inc. is an organization and migrant health center that seeks to protect farmworkers. They provide affordable healthcare, education assistance, and job training.
https://www.proteusinc.net/

Iowa Legal Aid helps provide legal information and resources, including details on farm and work-related issues. This also involves a crisis line for Spanish speakers.
https://www.iowalegalaid.org/resource/who-are-iowas-farmworkers?ref=GzVrW