This 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 certain individuals, including the judge, attorneys, and those necessary for operating the equipment, may be present with the minor during their testimony. Additionally, the bill clarifies that the judge must inform the minor that the defendant will not be physically present in the room but will be able to view the testimony through closed-circuit television. The bill also extends the provision for using two-way closed-circuit equipment to victims or witnesses with mental illness, intellectual disabilities, or other developmental disabilities, regardless of their age, provided the court finds it necessary to protect them. This amendment aims to create a more supportive environment for vulnerable witnesses during legal proceedings.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 915.38