HSB 609: Modifying the duties of the workforce development board, state board of education, and department of education related to cyber and artificial intelligence

What it does

This bill modifies the duties of the workforce development board, state board of education, and department of education related to cyber and artificial intelligence. The bill requires the workforce development board to establish a comprehensive initiative to address the state’s cyber and artificial intelligence workforce needs. The comprehensive initiative is required to include: support for the development and implementation of standards for cyber and artificial intelligence literacy within the kindergarten through grade public school curriculum; facilitation of partnerships between institutions of higher learning governed by the state board of regents and private industry to create internships, research opportunities, and specialized degree programs; and, subject to an appropriation of funds by the general assembly, establish and operate a grant program to support educational institutions and private sector entities in developing and expanding cyber and artificial intelligence training programs, and programs designed to facilitate career transitions into fields related to cyber or artificial intelligence for current professionals.

House subcommittee · named January 22, 2026

• Rep. Dan Gehlbach (R) · dan.gehlbach@legis.iowa.gov
• Rep. Heather Matson (D) · heather.matson@legis.iowa.gov
• Rep. Travis M. Sitzmann (R) · travis.sitzmann@legis.iowa.gov

Lobbying · 2 for, 0 against

For: Classlink; Make IT Secure

In plain words

1. January 22, 2026Filed in the House and sent to the Economic Growth and Technology committee
2. January 22, 2026House subcommittee named: Gehlbach, Matson and Sitzmann
3. January 29, 2026Subcommittee recommended passing it
4. February 11, 2026Approved by the House committee
5. February 11, 2026Committee vote: 13–6
6. February 16, 2026Approved by the House committee, and given a new number: HF 2528