This bill amends the criteria for adjudicating a child in need of assistance (CINA) in Iowa, specifically regarding the treatment of serious chemical dependencies, mental health disorders, or behavioral disorders. The new language allows a court to determine that a child is in need of assistance if they require treatment for a serious chemical dependency or a mental or behavioral health disorder that poses a risk to their safety or leads to aggressive behavior towards others. Additionally, it stipulates that the child's parent, guardian, or custodian must be unwilling or unable to provide the necessary treatment, or that their efforts to secure such treatment have been exhausted and unsuccessful.

The bill also makes a conforming change by removing subsection 13 from Code section 232.96A, which likely contained outdated or redundant language regarding the criteria for adjudication. Overall, the changes aim to broaden the scope of what constitutes a child in need of assistance, ensuring that children facing serious health challenges receive the necessary legal support and intervention.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 232.96A