Bills › 91st General Assembly
Relating to interviews conducted with a child subsequent to a report of child abuse
Sponsored by the Senate Judiciary Committee
Topics:Crime & correctionsFamilies & human servicesPublic safety & emergencies
Where it is now
- Done: IntroducedFebruary 12, 2026
- Done: SubcommitteeFebruary 12, 2026
- Done: Senate committeeFebruary 18, 2026
- Done: Passes the SenateMarch 4, 202645–0
- Skipped: House committeeSkipped
- Done: Passes the HouseMarch 5, 202685–0
- Done: To the GovernorApril 9, 2026
- Done: Signed into lawApril 9, 2026
Signed into law What’s a funnel?
What’s in it
AI summary Police officers and child protection workers would be allowed to interview children and record visible signs of abuse during investigations. These interviews can happen at places like child advocacy centers or even at a child's home if a parent agrees or a judge gives permission. This change helps officials gather information when someone reports that a child has been harmed.1
Read the official explanation
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 an accredited child protection center or child advocacy 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. The bill allows a peace officer to visit the home of the child for an interview or observation if the peace officer obtained consent from the child’s parent or guardian to interview or observe the child in the child’s home, or the juvenile court, upon a showing of probable cause, authorized the peace officer to interview or observe the child in the child’s home.68 (child abuse reporting, assessment, and rehabilitation —— definitions).
Why it matters. Peace officers and child protection workers could interview children at locations like child advocacy centers and record visible evidence of abuse during those interviews. Law enforcement officers may also visit a child's home to conduct an interview or observation if they have consent from a parent or guardian or a court order based on probable cause.2
Changed since by amendments H-8152, S-5055; see Amendments.
Senate subcommittee
Named February 12, 2026 (as SSB 3167). On February 17, 2026 it recommended amendment and passage.
Three legislators hear a bill first and recommend what the committee should do; it’s the best time to weigh in. How to take part
Iowa Code it changes
Lobbying
3 for · 0 against · 6 undecided · Who →
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91st General Assembly