HSB 741: Relating to interviews conducted with a child subsequent to a report of child abuse

What it does

This bill relates to interviews conducted with a child subsequent to a report of child abuse. The bill allows peace officers to conduct an interview with a child for the purpose of a child abuse investigation, and allows a child protection worker or peace officer to conduct an interview at a location including but not limited to a child protection center, and record visible evidence of abuse during an interview. Under current law, if an allegation of child abuse alleges a child has been harmed by a criminal act, the department of health and human services is required to refer the matter to the appropriate law enforcement agency.

House subcommittee · named February 16, 2026

• Rep. Henry Stone (R) · henry.stone@legis.iowa.gov
• Rep. Angel Ramirez (D) · angel.ramirez@legis.iowa.gov
• Rep. Craig Steven Williams (R) · craig.williams@legis.iowa.gov

Lobbying · 3 for, 0 against

For: Blank Childrens Hospital; Iowa Attorney General Dept. of Justice; Iowa County Attorneys Association

In plain words

1. February 16, 2026Filed in the House and sent to the Judiciary committee
2. February 16, 2026House subcommittee named: Stone, Ramirez and Williams
3. February 18, 2026Subcommittee recommended passing it
4. February 19, 2026Approved by the House committee
5. February 19, 2026Committee vote: 20–0
6. February 23, 2026Approved by the House committee, and given a new number: HF 2703