Protect Iowa’s Future.
Stop HF 2513.

A proposed law that would ban Iowa’s universities from hiring the world’s top researchers, threatening our economy and our reputation for "Iowa Nice."

Learn About the Bill

Legislative Brief

What is House File 2513?

House File 2513 is a legislative proposal currently moving through the Iowa Statehouse. If passed, it would prohibit Iowa’s public universities (ISU, UI, UNI) and community colleges from entering into employment contracts with highly skilled workers on H-1B visas who are citizens of nations designated as "foreign adversaries."

"Under this bill, Iowa would become the only state in the nation to impose a sweeping hiring ban on legal, federally-vetted international researchers based solely on their country of origin."

Key Provisions:

  • The Ban: Prohibits new employment contracts starting July 1, 2026.
  • The Target: Citizens of countries like China, Russia, Iran, North Korea, and others holding and seeking H-1B visas.
  • The Scope: Impacts all degree-granting institutions in Iowa, potentially stalling millions of dollars in research and innovation per year.

View HF 2513 on Iowa Legislature Site

The Impact


Tens of Millions+

In federal research funding brought to Iowa annually by international faculty and staff. View More Details

Brain Drain

Top researchers will be forced to take their talents (and grants) to other states.

Trade Risk

Discriminatory laws risk damaging Iowa’s vital global agricultural trade relationships.

Read our Petition
Join Us

Rally at the Capitol

Date: Tuesday, March 17 | Time: 1:00 pm

West Side Lawn of Iowa State Capitol, Des Moines

1007 E Grand Ave, Des Moines, IA 50319

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Join faculty, students, business leaders, and community leaders as we stand together for a stronger Iowa.