Georgia adoption lawyers advocate for ICPC reform to streamline inter-state adoptions

On June 11, 2025, the Georgia Senate Committee on Children & Families convened to address pressing issues surrounding adoption processes in the state, particularly focusing on the Interstate Compact on the Placement of Children (ICPC). The meeting highlighted significant concerns from adoption lawyers and adoptive parents regarding the complexities and delays in Georgia's adoption procedures compared to other states.

A key speaker, representing the Georgia Council of Adoption Lawyers, emphasized the need for clarity in the laws governing adoption, particularly in relation to ICPC packets. He pointed out that traffickers are unlikely to comply with these legal requirements, suggesting that the current system may not effectively prevent illegal activities. This statement raised questions about the efficacy of existing regulations and the need for reform.

Adoptive parents Reagan and Kevin Pritchett shared their personal experience navigating the adoption process, which involved multiple states—Ohio, Utah, and Georgia. They recounted the challenges they faced due to Georgia's stringent requirements, which delayed their return home with their newborn daughter. The couple expressed frustration over the additional documentation requested by Georgia, which they argued complicated an already lengthy process. They called for greater uniformity in adoption laws across states to facilitate smoother transitions for families.

The discussions underscored a broader concern about the adoption landscape in Georgia, where the current system may inadvertently hinder families seeking to adopt. The testimonies revealed a consensus among participants that while safeguards are necessary to prevent child trafficking, the existing regulations may be overly burdensome and counterproductive.

As the meeting concluded, the committee acknowledged the need for further examination of Georgia's adoption laws and the potential for reform at both state and federal levels. The implications of these discussions could lead to significant changes in how adoptions are processed in Georgia, aiming to balance the need for child safety with the desire for efficient and accessible adoption procedures.