Iowa Code Title VI. Human Services [Chs. 216-255A] § 235.2. Powers and duties of department

1. Administer and enforce the provisions of this chapter.

2. Join and cooperate with the government of the United States through its appropriate agency or instrumentality or with any other officer or agency of the federal government in planning, establishing, extending and strengthening public and private child welfare services within the state.

3. Investigate and obtain information to permit the director to determine the need for public child welfare services within the state and within the county departments.

4. Apply for and receive any funds which are or may be allotted to the state by the United States or any agency of the United States for the purpose of developing child welfare services.

5. Make reports and budget estimates to the governor and to the general assembly as required by law or as necessary and proper to obtain the appropriation of state funds for child welfare services within the state and for all the purposes of this chapter.

6. Cooperate with the county departments within the state, and all county boards of supervisors and other public or private agencies charged with the protection and care of children, in the development of child welfare services.

7. Aid in the enforcement of all laws of the state for the protection and care of children.

8. Cooperate with the juvenile courts of the state and subunits within the department regarding the management and control of state institutions and the inmates of the institutions.