Bill > S1050

This bill amends Idaho's existing adoption law to expand support and protection for birth parents during the adoption process. Specifically, the bill requires that when prospective adoptive parents provide financial assistance, they must also offer counseling services to birth parents, including at least three pre-placement and six post-placement counseling sessions. Additionally, the bill mandates that prospective adoptive parents notify birth parents of their right to receive legal advice and counseling services from professionals of their choosing, with these expenses to be covered by the prospective adoptive parents. The bill clarifies that these counseling and legal services can be included in the financial plan submitted to the court, which already oversees adoption-related expenses. The law maintains existing prohibitions against selling or bartering children and continues to allow reasonable financial assistance to birth parents for pregnancy-related expenses. The bill will go into effect on July 1, 2025, with an emergency clause indicating its immediate importance to the state's adoption processes.

Justice

Judiciary and Rules Committee (S)

https://legislature.idaho.gov/sessioninfo/2025/legislation/S1050/