Bill > HB1579

This bill establishes a comprehensive system within the Missouri Department of Social Services to facilitate adoptions and reduce abortions by creating the Missouri Adoptive Resources Services System. The legislation creates a new division of maternal and child resources responsible for maintaining directories of expectant mothers and prospective adoptive parents, coordinating resources, and providing support services. Key provisions include establishing a response and evaluation team to oversee service providers, creating detailed evaluation metrics for adoption services, and implementing strict confidentiality protocols to protect the privacy of expectant mothers, fathers, and children. The bill emphasizes treating all parties with respect, prioritizing the safety and welfare of expectant mothers and children, and ensuring that service providers are qualified and thoroughly vetted. It also includes mechanisms for sharing information between agencies when necessary to protect children, with specific guidelines about how and when such information can be disclosed. The legislation aims to provide comprehensive support throughout the adoption process, from prenatal care to post-adoption assistance, while maintaining rigorous standards for service delivery and protecting the rights of all individuals involved in the adoption process.

Health and Social Services

https://house.mo.gov/Bill.aspx?bill=HB1579&year=2025&code=R