This bill amends the Iowa rules of criminal procedure to enhance the criteria used in commitment hearings for defendants acquitted of crimes due to insanity. It specifies that the absence of recent overt acts of dangerousness cannot be the sole factor in determining whether a defendant remains mentally ill and poses a risk to themselves or others. Instead, the court must consider a comprehensive list of factors, including the nature of the original offense, the defendant's behavioral and psychiatric history, substance use disorder history, institutional behavior, environmental influences, and expert evaluations.

Additionally, the bill mandates that the revised rules of criminal procedure be submitted for legislative council review by October 14, 2026. This legislative change aims to ensure a more thorough assessment of defendants' mental health and potential risks, thereby improving public safety and the judicial process in cases involving insanity acquittals.