Iowa 2025-2026 Regular Session

Iowa House Bill HF670

Introduced
2/28/25  

Caption

A bill for an act relating to the jurisdiction of the juvenile court and juvenile pre-charge diversion programs.

Impact

The bill mandates the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) to set minimum standards for certified juvenile pre-charge diversion programs. These programs are designed to be community-based and focus on skill-building and restorative justice principles. By diverting children from formal judicial processes for minor offenses, HF670 intends to reduce the burden on juvenile courts and promote better outcomes for young individuals. The legislation also imposes additional requirements for how juvenile courts manage cases, particularly those concerning felony allegations, thereby ensuring a more structured approach to juvenile justice.

Summary

House File 670 seeks to revise the jurisdictional framework of the juvenile court and introduce juvenile pre-charge diversion programs aimed at rehabilitating children who have allegedly committed minor offenses. The bill expands the definition of a 'child' to include individuals under the age of 21 for certain juvenile justice proceedings, primarily those cases arising before they turn 18. This change aims to ensure that more children can benefit from rehabilitative services rather than facing formal court adjudication for simple misdemeanors.

Contention

Notably, the bill may face contention regarding the jurisdictional changes and the implementation of diversion programs. Proponents argue that it will prevent unnecessary legal entanglements for minor offenders and promote rehabilitation. Conversely, skeptics may question whether the expanded jurisdiction to include individuals up to 21 could lead to confusion in the legal system, particularly regarding the handling of non-violent offenders and the resources allocated to such diversion programs. Additionally, there may be concerns about ensuring the quality and effectiveness of the newly established juvenile pre-charge diversion programs.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

IA HF86

A bill for an act relating to the jurisdiction of the juvenile court and juvenile pre-charge diversion programs.

IA SF77

A bill for an act relating to the jurisdiction of the juvenile court and juvenile pre-charge diversion programs.

IA HF124

A bill for an act relating to expenses incurred in relation to certain legal matters concerning a child under the jurisdiction of the juvenile court.

IA SF2270

A bill for an act relating to juvenile justice policies and procedures.

IA HSB5

A bill for an act relating to paternity in certain actions before the juvenile court.(See HF 216.)

IA HSB625

A bill for an act relating to processes overseen by the department of health and human services, including internal adoption information sharing, dependent adult abuse matters, juvenile justice court filings, and mandatory reporter training.(See HF 2404.)

IA SSB3124

A bill for an act relating to processes overseen by the department of health and human services, including internal adoption information sharing, dependent adult abuse matters, juvenile justice court filings, and mandatory reporter training.(See SF 2355.)

IA HF216

A bill for an act relating to paternity in certain actions before the juvenile court. (Formerly HSB 5.) Effective date: 07/01/2023.

IA HF2404

A bill for an act relating to processes overseen by the department of health and human services, including internal adoption information sharing, dependent adult abuse matters, juvenile justice court filings, mandatory reporter training, and health care coordination and intervention teams, and including effective date provisions. (Formerly HSB 625.) Effective date: 04/19/2024, 07/01/2024.

IA HF2671

A bill for an act relating to aid, processes, services, and support staff for children in, adopted from, or in need of foster care, including the establishment of a legal representation for juvenile cases interim study committee, and making appropriations.(Formerly HF 2242.)

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