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 replaces this definition with a focus on 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 such grooming behavior to the Board of Educational Examiners (BOEE). It maintains the requirement for school district boards, superintendents, and other educational authorities to report instances of inappropriate relationships with students, ensuring that the protection of students remains a priority in educational settings.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 256.160