The bill amends existing laws regarding adoption services in Louisiana, specifically targeting the conduct of adoption facilitators. It prohibits adoption facilitators from advertising for adoption services, charging fees for their services, or acting as intermediaries between adoptive parents and birth mothers. The bill defines "adoption facilitator" and outlines exceptions for licensed adoption agencies, attorneys, mental health counselors, and certain pregnancy centers, ensuring that these professionals are not classified as facilitators under the new regulations. Violations of these provisions are classified as unfair trade practices, allowing for legal action to be taken against offenders.

Additionally, the bill enacts new definitions related to trade and commerce, explicitly including the advertising or collection of fees by adoption facilitators in violation of the newly established regulations. This aims to strengthen the enforcement of the law and protect the integrity of the adoption process in Louisiana. The amendments and new provisions collectively enhance oversight and accountability in the adoption services sector, ensuring that only licensed and qualified entities engage in such activities.

Statutes affected:
SB496 Original:
SB496 Engrossed:
SB496 Reengrossed:
SB496 Enrolled:
SB496 Act 362: