Sexual Orientation
Since July 1, 2008, it has been illegal in Iowa to discriminate against someone in employment (as well as education, public accommodations, credit, and housing) on the basis of sexual orientation or gender identity. Harassment based on either protected class is also illegal.
This does not give gays and lesbians "special rights." The law protects straight people from being harassed or discriminated against because of their sexual orientation as well.
On a related matter, the Iowa Supreme Court has held that it violates the equal protection guarantees in the Iowa Constitution for the State not to allow same-sex couples to marry on the same basis as opposite-sex couples. Everyone should actually read the Court's decision, whether they agree with it or not. (There is a link provided, below.) It is extremely well-written and will likely serve as a model for similar decisions around the nation.
Varnum v. Brien decision
All information on our website is meant to be generally informative.
To find out whether it applies to your situation in particular, you should consult a lawyer of your choice.