This bill amends various sections of Iowa law to allow individuals to raise, guide, and instruct a child in a manner consistent with the child's sex. It specifically states that such actions do not constitute child abuse and outlines several practices that are included under this exemption, such as referring to the child by appropriate titles or pronouns, seeking mental health services to support the child's alignment with their sex, making medical decisions based on the child's sex, and declining to consent to gender transition procedures.

Additionally, the bill introduces provisions that prevent discrimination against individuals or agencies based on their intent to raise a child in accordance with the child's sex when it comes to licensing, custody arrangements, and adoption services. It ensures that these considerations cannot be used negatively in custody disputes and mandates that the Department of Human Services cannot refuse to issue licenses based on these criteria. The bill also clarifies that child endangerment does not include actions taken in alignment with the child's sex, thereby reinforcing the protections for parents and guardians who choose to raise their children in this manner.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 232.68, 147.164