A bill for an act prohibiting the consideration of the deployment, implementation, or use of a motor carrier safety improvement when determining a person's employment status. (Formerly SSB 1107.) Effective date: 07/01/2025.

Iowa Senate File 377, effective July 1, 2025, ensures that the use of safety technologies by motor carriers—such as devices, equipment, software, or training aimed at improving compliance with traffic safety laws—cannot be used to determine a driver's employment status. This means that implementing these safety measures will not affect whether a driver is classified as an employee or an independent contractor under state law.

Supporters of SF 377 argue that the bill promotes the adoption of safety technologies by motor carriers without the risk of altering drivers' employment classifications. By removing potential legal uncertainties, the legislation encourages companies to invest in safety improvements, potentially leading to safer roadways and better compliance with traffic laws.

Critics of SF 377 contend that the bill may allow motor carriers to exert greater control over drivers through safety technologies without reclassifying them as employees. This could potentially limit drivers' rights and benefits associated with employee status, such as health insurance, workers' compensation, and other employment protections.