This bill amends Code chapter 600B, which pertains to paternity and the obligation of parents for child support, to expand the parties eligible to file a complaint for establishing paternity. Previously, only the mother or other interested persons could initiate such proceedings, but the bill now allows the alleged father of the child, the child's mother, or the child themselves to file a complaint. Additionally, the bill includes provisions for the alleged father to request blood or genetic testing to establish paternity, requiring that any request be accompanied by an affidavit that alleges or denies paternity and outlines the reasonable possibility of sexual contact between the mother and the alleged father.

The bill also makes several conforming changes throughout the Code chapter to reflect these updates, including the use of more inclusive language regarding the parties involved. For instance, it replaces terms like "defendant" with "alleged father" and specifies that the child's mother or alleged father may request testing. Other amendments clarify the procedures for instituting proceedings, the implications of the death of a party involved, and the requirements for reporting paternity judgments to the state registrar of vital statistics. Overall, the bill aims to streamline the process of establishing paternity and ensuring child support obligations are met.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 600B.4, 600B.41, 600B.8, 600B.9, 600B.11, 600B.13, 600B.14, 600B.16, 600B.17, 600B.21, 600B.22, 600B.24, 600B.15, 726.3