The bill aims to enhance the legal recognition of sibling relationships in the context of adoption and the termination of parental rights in Alaska. It emphasizes the importance of maintaining sibling bonds, particularly for children in foster care, and encourages courts to facilitate post-adoption contact between siblings. The legislation mandates that when a court reviews an adoption petition for a minor who has siblings, it must assess whether post-adoption visitation with those siblings is in the child's best interests and document this finding in the final adoption decree.

Additionally, the bill amends existing laws to clarify that while a final decree of adoption terminates legal relationships between the adopted person and their natural parents and relatives, it does not apply to siblings. The definition of "sibling" is expanded to include individuals related by blood, adoption, or marriage, as well as those who were raised together in the same household. This legislative change is intended to promote ongoing connections between adopted children and their siblings, thereby supporting their emotional well-being. The act is set to take effect immediately upon passage.

Statutes affected:
HB0157A, AM HB 157, introduced 03/26/2025: 25.23.125, 25.23.130