HF2515: Sexual Exploitation of a Minor Sentences

Prohibits granting deferred or suspended sentences to individuals convicted of sexual exploitation of a child if the minor victim was under 12 years of age or prepubescent at the time of the offense. Two new provisions are added to the law specifying this restriction for both deferred and suspended sentences.

Key Points & Impact:

• Adds a new subparagraph to Iowa Code 907.3(2)(a) barring deferred sentences for sexual exploitation of a child if the victim was under 12 or prepubescent.

• Adds a new paragraph to Iowa Code 907.3(3) barring suspended sentences for sexual exploitation of a child if the victim was under 12 or prepubescent.

• Targets offenses under Iowa Code 728.12 (sexual exploitation of a child).

• Specifically applies to cases where the minor was under 12 or prepubescent at the time of the offense.

• Limits judicial discretion in sentencing for these specific offenses and age groups.

• Aims to increase penalties for the most serious offenses involving very young or prepubescent victims.

• Does not amend or affect other sentencing provisions outside these circumstances.

• No changes to other age groups or categories of sexual exploitation offenses.

Signed by Governor on April 9. Takes effect July 1, 2026.