This bill amends the definition of "grooming behavior" in Iowa law as it pertains to mandatory reporting requirements for licensed school employees. The current definition describes grooming behavior as actions intended to entice or entrap a student into engaging in a sexual act. The new language redefines grooming behavior to mean the process of building trust and emotional connections with a student with the intent to exploit that student.

The bill emphasizes the importance of reporting any disciplinary actions taken against school employees for engaging in grooming behavior, alongside other inappropriate conduct with students. By clarifying the definition of grooming behavior, the bill aims to enhance the understanding and identification of such actions, thereby strengthening the protections for students within educational settings.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 256.160