The bill amends Section 915.38 of the Iowa Code to enhance the protections for minor witnesses during legal proceedings. It allows a court to order that a minor's testimony be taken in a separate room rather than in the courtroom if the physical presence of the defendant would cause trauma and impair the minor's ability to communicate. The testimony will be transmitted to the courtroom using two-way, closed-circuit equipment that includes both audio and video feeds, ensuring that the courtroom can listen to and view the minor's testimony while the defendant is not physically present.

Additionally, the bill specifies that only certain individuals, including the judge, attorneys, and personnel necessary for operating the equipment, may be present with the minor during their testimony. The judge is required to inform the minor that the defendant will be watching the testimony via closed-circuit television. This legislative change aims to provide a more supportive environment for minors testifying in court, addressing their emotional well-being while maintaining the integrity of the judicial process.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 915.38