SENATE BILL WOULD GIVE KIDS METH PROTECTION

DES MOINES - The Iowa Senate voted Tuesday to protect children who are
exposed to methamphetamine makers.

Under legislation approved 48-0, state officials could move to protect a
child when meth is made in their presence, or close enough for "dangerous
substances" to be seen or smelled. The state would have the authority to
designate the child as a Child in Need of Assistance and, in some cases,
remove them from the home.

Passage sends the bill to Gov. Tom Vilsack for his expected signature. The
measure is part of a package of child protection bills proposed by Attorney
General Tom Miller.