This bill aims to strengthen Iowa's response to human trafficking by establishing an annual stakeholder meeting that will involve various state departments, law enforcement, and organizations dedicated to addressing human trafficking. It introduces a definition for commercial sexual exploitation and mandates screenings for children involved in allegations of delinquent acts or child abuse. Additionally, the bill extends the statute of limitations for victims of sexual abuse or human trafficking to five years after they reach the age of majority. It also allows for video depositions of human trafficking victims during criminal prosecutions, ensuring their testimony can be recorded and used in court without requiring their physical presence.

Moreover, the bill mandates the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) to collaborate with nonprofit service providers to enhance restoration facilities and protective services for juvenile victims, including those not classified as children in need of assistance. HHS is also tasked with exploring housing options outside of Iowa for victims at risk of returning to their traffickers. The legislation allocates $750,000 from the state’s general fund for the fiscal year 2025-2026 to establish a joint unit within the attorney general's office to combat human trafficking, which will focus on investigating and prosecuting cases, analyzing data, and evaluating state-funded initiatives.

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