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

HF 670 establishes a new juvenile pre-charge diversion program in Iowa for youth who allegedly committed simple misdemeanors (not felonies). It requires law enforcement to refer eligible juveniles to certified community-based programs instead of filing formal charges, provided the youth hasn’t used the program in the past year. These programs must focus on short-term skill-building and restorative justice, collect participant data, and meet state-set standards. The bill directly affects juveniles aged 18-21 in certain cases, law enforcement agencies, and juvenile courts by expanding diversion options before formal court involvement.