New assisted living rules effective March 11

The Iowa Department of Inspections, Appeals and Licensing (DIAL) notices final rule changes to Iowa Administrative Code, Chapters 481-67 and 481-69. These rule changes will go into effect on March 11, 2026.

As previously stated, the most significant update integrates the revised scope of practice standards for licensed practical nurses (LPNs), which allows LPNs to complete initial and change in condition assessments/evaluations via delegation by the program’s registered nurse. Additionally, the revised rules now require programs to identify in their policy which staff member is responsible for the completion of an initial incident report. Members must be aware that repeated requirements found in Iowa Code 231C, Assisted Living Programs were removed from administrative rules. Therefore, members are reminded to refer to this section of Code when considering operational changes or seeking regulatory clarification.

Questions about the rule sections can be directed to IHCA’s Brenda Irlbeck, VP of Regulatory Affairs.