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IA SF2161
Bill
Status
Introduced
1/29/2026
Primary Sponsor
Scott Webster
Click for details
AI Summary
- Defines "coercive control" as a pattern of behavior causing physical, emotional, or psychological harm that unreasonably interferes with an individual's free will and personal liberty
- Adds coercive control to Iowa's legal definition of domestic abuse under Section 236.2 of the Iowa Code, expanding protections beyond physical assault
- Specifies coercive control behaviors including: technology-based harassment, threats involving weapons, controlling identification documents, financial exploitation, isolation from support networks, and excessive litigation to harass
- Applies to family/household members residing together, separated or divorced spouses, parents of the same minor child, and persons in intimate relationships
- Excludes protective actions taken in good faith to protect oneself or one's children from reasonably perceived risk of harm
Legislative Description
A bill for an act defining coercive control and including it in the definition of domestic abuse.
Last Action
Subcommittee recommends amendment and passage.
2/17/2026
Committee Referrals
Judiciary1/29/2026
Full Bill Text
No bill text available