Iowa Code § 238.1: Definitions.

For the purpose of this chapter unless the context otherwise requires:

1. “Child” means the same as defined in section 234.1.

2. “Child-placing agency” or “agency” means any agency, whether public, semipublic, or private, which represents that the agency places children permanently or temporarily in private family homes or receives children for placement in private family homes, or which actually engages for gain or otherwise in the placement of children in private family homes. “Agency” includes individuals, institutions, partnerships, voluntary associations, and corporations, other than institutions under the management or control of the department.

3. “Department” means the department of health and human services.

4. “Director” means the director of health and human services.