The bill amends Section 915.38 of the Iowa Code to enhance protections for minors and certain vulnerable witnesses during court testimony. It allows a court, upon its own motion or the motion of any party, to order that a minor's testimony be taken in a separate room from the courtroom and televised using two-way closed-circuit equipment. This measure aims to prevent trauma that could impair the minor's ability to communicate effectively while testifying in the presence of the defendant. The bill specifies that only essential personnel and individuals deemed beneficial to the minor's well-being may be present during the testimony.

Additionally, the bill expands the provisions for using two-way closed-circuit equipment to include victims or witnesses with mental illnesses, intellectual disabilities, or other developmental disabilities, regardless of their age. This change is intended to ensure that all vulnerable witnesses can provide their testimony in a manner that minimizes potential distress. The bill emphasizes the necessity of these measures by requiring a specific court finding before such arrangements can be made.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 915.38