HF2337: Academic Credentials Fraud

Makes it a fraudulent practice to falsely claim academic degrees or credentials for purposes of employment or personal gain. 

Key Points & Impact:

• Adds a new subsection (6A) to Iowa Code section 714.8 making it a fraudulent practice to falsely claim academic degrees or credentials for employment or personal gain.

• Defines the act of misrepresenting academic credentials as a criminal offense.

• Amends section 714.10 to include this new fraudulent practice (714.8(6A)) as a fraudulent practice in the second degree.

• Classifies the offense as a class 'D' felony, subject to existing penalties for that classification.

• Penalties for a class 'D' felony include up to five years imprisonment and a fine between $1,025 and $10,245.

• Targets individuals who use false academic credentials to obtain jobs or other personal benefits.