This bill aims to strengthen Iowa's response to human trafficking by establishing an annual stakeholder meeting led by the office to combat human trafficking within the Department of Public Safety. The meeting will involve various representatives, including law enforcement and survivors, to develop legislative proposals and report findings to the governor and general assembly. Key provisions include the introduction of a definition for commercial sexual exploitation, mandatory screenings for children when complaints are received, and requirements for juvenile courts to order substance use disorder screenings prior to final disposition hearings. Additionally, the bill extends the statute of limitations for filing actions related to sexual abuse or human trafficking from one year to five years after a victim reaches the age of majority and allows for video depositions of victims to facilitate their testimony in court.

To further support victims, the bill mandates the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) to collaborate with nonprofit service providers to expand restoration facilities for juvenile victims and explore housing options across state lines. A report on this initiative is due by December 15, 2025. The bill also allocates $750,000 from the state’s general fund for the fiscal year 2025-2026 to establish a joint unit involving the attorney general's office and the Iowa office to combat human trafficking. This unit will focus on investigating and prosecuting human trafficking cases, analyzing data, evaluating state-funded initiatives, and collaborating with state agencies to enhance the overall effectiveness of human trafficking responses in Iowa.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 80.45, 915.35, 232.28, 232.50, 232.71B, 614.8, 614.1, 725.1