Iowa § 232.79A - 232.79A Children without adult supervision.
Full text of Iowa Iowa Code § 232.79A — 232.79A Children without adult supervision., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 232.79A. 232.79A Children without adult supervision.
If a peace officer determines that a child does not have adult supervision because the child’s parent, guardian, or other person responsible for the care of the child has been arrested and detained or has been unexpectedly incapacitated, and that no adult who is legally responsible for the care of the child can be located within a reasonable period of time, the peace officer shall attempt to place the child with an adult relative of the child or a fictive kin. The person with whom the child is placed is authorized to give consent for emergency medical treatment of the child and shall not be held liable for any action arising from giving the consent. Upon the request of the peace officer, the department shall assist in making the placement. The placement shall not exceed a period of twenty-four hours and shall be terminated when a person who is legally responsible for the care of the child is located and takes custody of the child. If a person who is legally responsible for the care of the child cannot be located within the twenty-four hour period or a placement in accordance with this section is unavailable, the provisions of section 232.79 shall apply. If the person with whom the child is placed charges a fee for the care of the child, the fee shall be paid from funds provided in the appropriation to the department for protective child care. 90 Acts, ch 1215, §2; 2022 Acts, ch 1098, §28 Thu Dec 11 19:06:05 2025 Iowa Code 2026, Section 232.79A (26, 0)
Source: official Iowa text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Iowa § 232.79A
What does Iowa Code § 232.79A cover?
Section 232.79A ("232.79A Children without adult supervision.") is part of the Iowa Code, the codified statutory law of Iowa. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.
How do I cite Iowa § 232.79A?
A common citation format is "Iowa Code § 232.79A" (Iowa). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.
Is this the official text of Iowa law?
No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Iowa official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Iowa attorney.
How does Iowa § 232.79A apply to my situation?
Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Iowa can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.
Sources & Verification
Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in Iowa.