This bill amends the Iowa rules of criminal procedure to enhance the assessment process during commitment hearings for defendants acquitted of crimes due to insanity. It specifically instructs the Iowa Supreme Court to revise rule 2.22(8)(e) by adding a new subparagraph (4). This subparagraph clarifies that the absence of recent overt acts of dangerousness cannot be the sole factor in determining whether a defendant poses a risk to themselves or others. Instead, the court must consider a comprehensive range 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.

The bill emphasizes the importance of a multifaceted approach in evaluating a defendant's current mental state and potential danger, particularly in light of the structured environments in which they may have been confined. The revised rules are required to be submitted for legislative council review by October 14, 2026, ensuring that the new considerations are formally integrated into the legal framework governing such hearings.