As Introduced: The bill requires DHHS to enter into a written agreement with adoptive parents on the terms of state adoption assistance. The bill also provides that adoption assistance can continue after the death of adoptive parents if the need continues and it’s allowed in the initial terms of agreement or for up to 6 months pending the appointment of a guardian or conservator. If a child were to become a ward of the state all adoption assistance would cease.
As Amended: The amendments added a requirement that the adoption assistance agreement to name a guardian in the case of the death of the adoptive parent(s).
Introducing Senator: Nordquist, Dubas, Howard
Committee: Health and Human Services
Committee Hearing Date: February 2, 2012
Final Status: Signed by the Governor, April 10, 2012.
Estimated Fiscal Impact: This bill has no estimated fiscal impact.
Voices for Children’s Position: Support (see our testimony here).
