IOWA: New law requires all teachers to have "seizure training"

May 29, 2025, KCCI, Des Moines: 'It's a really important thing': Iowa family reacts to new law requiring seizure training in schools

A Central Iowa mom says she will feel more comfortable dropping her kids off at school thanks to a new law requiring seizure training for school personnel in Iowa's public and nonpublic schools.

House File 835 requires all staff at Iowa's public and private schools to undergo seizure recognition and first aid training. The law takes effect July 1, 2025, and all staff members must undergo training on or before Dec. 31, 2026.

Mandy Cosper has two kids who have epilepsy. Her 8-year-old daughter Presley has been in remission for more than two years now. Her 12-year-old son Colt has a rare form of epilepsy that causes frequent seizures. . . .

Rep. Ray Sorensen (R-Greenfield) said he, alongside advocates, has been working for the last seven years to get the bill across the finish line. It gained near-unanimous support in both the Iowa House and Senate this legislative session. Gov. Kim Reynolds signed the bill into law Tuesday.

Sorensen's daughter had a seizure when she was just 2 years old. . . .

According to Epilepsy Foundation Iowa, there are 4,400 kids and teens who live with epilepsy in the state of Iowa. In a statement, executive director Roxanne Cogil said:

“After 7 years of advocacy, we are thrilled that Governor Reynolds has signed House File 835 into law, marking a significant step forward for students living with epilepsy and their families. This legislation ensures that school personnel are equipped to manage epilepsy and seizure disorders, providing a safer and more supportive environment for affected students. It's a meaningful advancement in safeguarding physician-directed care within schools and promoting the well-being of students with epilepsy.”