Bill > HB1772

This bill modifies existing Missouri law regarding subsidies for adopted children by adding a new provision that, beginning January 1, 2027, will provide financial assistance to prospective adoptive parents for legal expenses associated with adoption proceedings. The financial grant will help cover costs such as attorney fees, filing fees, publication fees, and birth record amendment expenses. The bill specifies that the grant will be up to $2,500 for uncontested adoptions and up to $4,000 for contested adoptions, with legal services billed at a rate of $175 per hour by Missouri-licensed attorneys. Additionally, a separate grant of up to $500 will be available for guardian ad litem fees, also billed at $175 per hour. The grant will be formalized through a written agreement between the children's division and the prospective adoptive parents, and this provision will remain in effect for five years after its implementation. This change aims to provide financial support to families seeking to adopt children, potentially making the adoption process more accessible by offsetting some of the significant legal costs involved.

Government Affairs, Health and Social Services

https://house.mo.gov/Bill.aspx?bill=HB1772&year=2026&code=R