This bill aims to improve the delivery of health and human services in Iowa by establishing health and human services districts (HHS districts) that align with existing behavioral health districts. Key provisions include the creation of a "Behavioral health district advisory council" and a clear definition of "health and human services district" as a designated geographic area by the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS). The bill modifies existing definitions related to behavioral health services, replacing references to "district behavioral health" with "behavioral health district" to streamline the language. It also outlines the Department's responsibilities in designating HHS districts, which will initially mirror current behavioral health districts, and mandates a review every seven years to allow for adjustments based on population and service needs.

Furthermore, the bill establishes a subunit for volunteerism within HHS to create volunteer programs that support the department's services. This subunit will provide administrative support for the Iowa commission on volunteer service and will have the authority to hire personnel as necessary. Volunteers registered with this subunit will be recognized as state employees for certain legal purposes, while maintaining specific duties and liabilities for volunteer guardians and conservators. The legislation emphasizes the need for coordination among state agencies to enhance national and community service initiatives, ultimately aiming for a more integrated and responsive health and human services system in Iowa.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 12.51, 217.1, 217.1B, 225A.4, 225A.3, 225A.5, 225A.6, 225A.7, 225A.8, 231.4, 231.23, 15H.4, 217.13