The bill amends the definition of "pecuniary damages" in Section 910.1 of the Iowa Code. It removes the stipulation that damages are only considered to the extent they are not paid by an insurer on an insurance claim by the victim. This change allows victims to recover the full amount of damages they could claim in a civil action against the offender, without the limitation of insurance payments.

Additionally, the bill clarifies that pecuniary damages include expenses for psychiatric or psychological services that became necessary as a direct result of the criminal activity. The revised definition continues to exclude punitive damages and damages for pain, suffering, mental anguish, and loss of consortium, while still encompassing wrongful death damages. Overall, the bill aims to enhance the restitution available to victims of crime by broadening the scope of recoverable damages.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 910.1