Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Family Law topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Committee sends RS 32109 to print to require adoptive parents cover counseling and legal costs for birth mothers
Summary
Senator Tammy Nichols presented RS 32109 to require adoptive parents to pay for pre- and post-placement counseling and legal counsel for birth mothers; the committee moved the draft to print by voice vote.
Senate Judiciary and Rules Committee members advanced RS 32109, a legislative draft that would add two new sections to Idaho Code 18-1511 to strengthen support for birth mothers during the adoption process.
Senator Tammy Nichols (District 10) told the committee RS 32109 would require adoptive parents to pay for counseling and legal services for birth mothers. The draft text described two counseling phases: a pre-placement counseling requirement with a minimum of three sessions and a post-placement counseling requirement with at least six sessions. Nichols said the birth mother would be informed she may receive legal counsel and counseling services of her choice, with those costs covered by the prospective adoptive parents.
Committee members asked clarifying questions about cost controls. Senator Uchte asked whether the bill requires counsel and counseling fees to be “reasonable.” Senator Lent and the chair referenced language in the draft pointing to “reasonable maternity and living expenses” and a provision requiring court review and approval of plans when anticipated costs exceed $2,000.
Senator Lent moved to send RS 32109 to print; Senator Keiser seconded. The committee approved the motion by voice vote; the chair announced the motion carried and RS 32109 will be sent to print.
