Bill > S3285

This bill introduces the ADOPT Act of 2025, which aims to criminalize unlawful adoption practices in private domestic interstate adoptions by establishing new federal regulations. The bill defines specific offenses related to adoption intermediary services, adoption advertising, and unauthorized payments to or on behalf of placing parents (the legal guardians who can place a child for adoption). The legislation prohibits individuals or organizations from acting as intermediaries, placing adoption advertisements, or providing financial support exceeding $2,500 to placing parents without first consulting a licensed child-placing agency or attorney. Violations can result in significant penalties, including fines of $50,000 and up to 5 years imprisonment for individuals, or $100,000 for organizations. The bill includes exceptions for public child-placing agencies, certain non-profit organizations, licensed attorneys, and accredited international adoption service providers. The law applies to actions involving interstate or foreign commerce and is designed to prevent the exploitation of prospective adoptive parents and placing parents, ensure proper oversight of adoption processes, and protect children from being treated as commodities. The Act will take effect 120 days after its enactment and does not interfere with existing laws like the Indian Child Welfare Act or intercountry adoption regulations.

Justice

https://www.congress.gov/bill/119th-congress/senate-bill/3285/all-info