FINAL BILL REPORT

SHB 1956

                                  C 255 L 89

BYHouse Committee on Human Services (originally sponsored by Representatives Winsley, Brekke, Heavey, Leonard, Moyer, Bristow, Padden, Ebersole, Anderson and Youngsman)

Revising and adding provisions on adoption.

House Committe on Human Services

Senate Committee on Children & Family Services

SYNOPSIS AS ENACTED

BACKGROUND:

Currently there are no limitations on who can advertise regarding the following: (1) the desire to adopt a child; (2) the availability of a child for adoption; or (3) the provision of adoption-related services.

There has been concern expressed regarding out-of-state agents or attorneys who advertise throughout the country and appear to be "baby brokering."  In addition, the opinion has been expressed that additional protection would be offered to a prospective adoptive child or children if a favorable pre-placement report was required prior to a party's advertising for a child.

SUMMARY:

No person or entity may advertise his or her desire to adopt a child or place a child up for adoption unless the person or entity is:  (1) an agent, employee, or contractee of the Department of Social and Health Services, (2) a licensed child-placing agency, (3) an attorney licensed to practice in Washington State, or (4) the recipient of a favorable pre-placement report or such person's authorized, uncompensated agent.  Any person or entity who violates these restrictions shall be guilty of a misdemeanor.

VOTES ON FINAL PASSAGE:

      House 97   0

      Senate    46     0 (Senate amended)

      House 97   0 (House concurred)

EFFECTIVE:July 23, 1989