Iowa HF2604 amends child abuse definitions to include controlled substance use by pregnant women.

Iowa HF2604 modifies the definition of child abuse to include the use of controlled substances by pregnant women responsible for a child's care. This bill mandates that mandatory reporters inform the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) of such cases. HHS is then required to conduct a child abuse assessment, offer support to the pregnant woman, and take other lawful actions to safeguard the child's health. This change aims to address potential risks to unborn children due to substance use during pregnancy.

Iowa HF2604 amends child abuse definitions to include controlled substance use by pregnant women.

Iowa HF2604 modifies the definition of child abuse to include the use of controlled substances by pregnant women responsible for a child's care. This bill mandates that mandatory reporters inform the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) of such cases. HHS is then required to conduct a child abuse assessment, offer support to the pregnant woman, and take other lawful actions to safeguard the child's health. This change aims to address potential risks to unborn children due to substance use during pregnancy.