A bill for an act relating to family interactions during an ongoing child in need of assistance proceeding. (Formerly HSB 40.) Effective date: 07/01/2025.

Iowa House File 367 (HF367) is a law that ensures family interactions continue during ongoing Child in Need of Assistance (CINA) proceedings, regardless of a parent's failure to comply with court orders or Department of Health and Human Services requirements. The law specifies that such interactions can only be halted if a court finds substantial evidence that these interactions would pose a serious risk of physical or emotional harm to the child.

The bill received strong bipartisan support, passing the House with a 91-0 vote and the Senate with a 47-1 vote, indicating broad legislative approval. Supporters argue that maintaining family interactions during CINA proceedings is crucial for the child's emotional well-being and can facilitate family reunification when appropriate.

While the bill passed with overwhelming support, some concerns were raised about the potential risks to children if family interactions continue despite parental non-compliance with court orders. Critics worry that the threshold for halting interactions—requiring substantial evidence of serious risk—might delay necessary protective actions for vulnerable children.