Iowa Code § 216A.1: Department of health and human services — human rights — purpose.

1. The department of health and human services shall be responsible for all of the following:

a. Community advocacy and services on behalf of underrepresented populations in the state.

b. Community action agencies.

c. Criminal and juvenile justice planning.

2. The purpose of the department under this chapter and as otherwise provided by law is to ensure basic rights, freedoms, and opportunities for all by empowering underrepresented Iowans and eliminating economic, social, and cultural barriers.

3. The department shall implement the comprehensive strategic plan approved by the board under section 216A.3 and shall issue an annual report to the governor and the general assembly no later than November 1 of each year concerning the operations of the department relating to responsibilities for human rights.