Adoption experts criticize Georgia ICPC for mishandling interstate placement cases

Georgia's Senate Committee on Children & Families convened on June 11, 2025, to address critical issues surrounding the Interstate Compact on the Placement of Children (ICPC) and its implementation, which has raised concerns about the safety and legality of adoption practices in the state.

A significant point of discussion was the alleged misuse of ICPC regulations, which some committee members argue has led to unjust outcomes for families seeking to adopt. One speaker highlighted a troubling case involving a couple from New England who, after being connected with a birth mother in Georgia through an out-of-state agency, faced a sudden and unnotified intervention by local authorities. The couple's child was taken from them under a pickup order issued without their knowledge, raising serious questions about the transparency and fairness of the ICPC process.

The speaker criticized the lack of regulation regarding agency fees, noting that agencies can charge exorbitant amounts without clear communication to prospective adoptive parents. This lack of oversight can lead to unexpected financial burdens for families, compounding the emotional stress of the adoption process.

Furthermore, the discussion revealed concerns about the involvement of unlicensed agencies and the potential for exploitation in the adoption market. The speaker emphasized the need for better regulation and oversight to protect families and ensure that all adoption practices adhere to legal standards.

The committee also heard testimony regarding ongoing efforts to improve the regulation of adoption agencies in Georgia, with advocates calling for more stringent measures to prevent abuses and ensure that children are placed in safe and supportive environments.

As the committee continues to explore these issues, the implications for Georgia's adoption landscape remain significant. The discussions highlight the urgent need for reform to protect the rights of families and children involved in the adoption process, ensuring that the ICPC serves its intended purpose of facilitating safe and legal interstate adoptions.