SF 2096: Relating to foster parent training requirements for the licensure of individual child foster care providers

What it does

This bill relates to training requirements for the licensure of individual child foster care (foster care) providers. Under current law, an individual must complete hours of foster care training offered or approved by the department of health and human services (HHS) to obtain a foster care license. HHS may waive all or a portion of an individual’s training requirements based on the individual’s relevant training and experience. HHS may also waive all or a portion of the training based on the individual’s circumstances and the circumstances of the prospective foster child.

Senate subcommittee · named January 14, 2026

• Sen. Kara Warme (R) · kara.warme@legis.iowa.gov
• Sen. Mark Costello (R) · mark.costello@legis.iowa.gov
• Sen. Renee Hardman (D) · renee.hardman@legis.iowa.gov

Lobbying · 9 for, 2 against

For: Americans For Prosperity; Coalition for Family and Children's Services in Iowa; Four Oaks; Iowa Baptists For Biblical Values; Lutheran Services in IA, Inc.; Personal Interest-Chuck Hurley; The Family Leader; The Family Leader Foundation; VALOR Iowa

Against: Bitches Get Stuff Done; Iowa Integrated Health Planning and Advisory Council

In plain words

1. January 14, 2026Filed in the Senate and sent to the Health and Human Services committee · as SSB 3016
2. January 14, 2026Senate subcommittee named: Warme, Costello and Hardman · as SSB 3016
3. January 21, 2026Subcommittee recommended passing it · as SSB 3016
4. January 22, 2026Filed in the Senate
5. January 22, 2026Approved by the Senate committee
6. January 22, 2026Approved by the Senate committee, and given a new number: SF 2096 · as SSB 3016
7. February 10, 2026Passed the Senate, 37–9
8. March 2, 2026Took the place of HF 2163 on the House floor (the same legislation)
9. March 2, 2026Passed the House, 80–10
10. April 6, 2026Sent to the Governor
11. April 7, 2026Signed into law