HB 159 updates and streamlines Georgia’s adoption code
Gov. Nathan Deal has signed into law comprehensive reforms to the state’s adoption code. “In this exceptional state in which so many choose to work, learn and create a home, we continue to value the cornerstone of our society: the family,” Deal said.
HB 159 streamlines the adoption process, making it “easier for adoptive parents to create a loving family in our state,” added the governor.
Deal made his remarks during a signing ceremony Monday at the State Capitol.
Provisions of the bill
The new law shortens the time from 10 to 4 days that a birth mother now has to reverse her decision to give up her child after signing adoption documents. It also allows 21 year olds to adopt a minor relative. The previous age was 25.
Lawmakers removed a controversial provision in the bill that would have allowed adoption agencies to discriminate against prospective parents based on religious grounds. That provision could have affected single-parent homes, unwed couples and LGBT couples.
The new law will allow out of state parents to finalize adoptions of Georgia children in state courts. It also reduces the age to participate in the state’s reunion registry from 21 to 18, among other things.
Near unanimous consent
This is the first time in a generation that Georgia’s adoption laws have been updated. During today’s signing Deal said, “With the signing of this bill into law, we are giving children, including the 13,500 children in foster care, renewed hope for a forever family.”
Rep. Bert Reeves (R-Marietta) sponsored the legislation. The bill passed the House on Feb. 1 with a vote of 168-0. It passed the Senate on Feb. 5 with a vote of 53-2.
“This new law represents three years of work by the Georgia Council of Adoption Lawyers, Superior Court Judges, adoption agencies, and many others,” said Reeves. He called the signing of the bill into law “the proudest moment of my professional career.”
