Bill > HB0141

This bill modifies Utah's adoption laws by updating provisions related to preplacement adoptive evaluations, specifically expanding exceptions to when a full home study is required before child placement. The bill allows placement without a complete evaluation in several new scenarios: when a pre-existing parent has legal custody and the prospective adoptive parent is a close relative (such as a grandparent or first cousin), when the prospective adoptive parent was previously married to the pre-existing parent and has lived with the child for at least 180 days, or when the child has lived with the prospective adoptive parent for at least one year and the court determines the adoption is in the child's best interests. In these cases, the prospective adoptive parent must still obtain and file certain background documentation before finalizing the adoption. The bill maintains existing requirements for criminal background checks, child abuse investigation reports, and home studies, which must be completed within 18 months of child placement. The changes aim to streamline the adoption process for certain familial and long-term caregiving situations while still preserving safeguards to ensure child welfare. The bill is set to take effect on May 7, 2025.

Health and Social Services, Justice

https://le.utah.gov/~2025/bills/static/HB0141.html