IA HF2014

Children aged 16 or older gain the right to request a court hearing to modify existing custody and visitation orders to reflect their preferences.

Courts must grant the child's preference for physical care or visitation arrangements unless clear and convincing evidence shows the preference results from coercion, would place the child in imminent danger, or would effectively prohibit a parent from exercising their parental rights.

When evaluating whether a parent would be effectively prohibited from raising the child, courts must consider visitation frequency, each parent's history of violating custody orders, decision-making ability regarding education and health care, and ability to spend time with the child without disrupting their routine.

The bill preserves court authority to issue protective orders or other orders necessary to protect a child's welfare.

Takes effect immediately upon enactment and amends Iowa Code sections 598.21C and 598.41.