This bill amends and reenacts several sections of the North Dakota Century Code related to the revised uniform adoption act and child-placing agencies. Key amendments include the removal of certain requirements for adoption petitions, such as the verification of the petitioner's expenses by the court. The bill also introduces new provisions that allow for compensation to child-placing agencies for reasonable fees associated with adoption services, provided these fees are documented in a financial agreement. Additionally, it clarifies that the department of health and human services may provide adoption services when there is a conflict of interest with a child-placing agency.

Furthermore, the bill establishes stricter regulations regarding the licensure of child-placing agencies, including grounds for revocation of licenses and penalties for violations. It specifies that individuals may not place children for adoption without a proper license and outlines the conditions under which a parent can place their child for adoption with relatives. The bill also repeals two existing sections of the Century Code that pertain to out-of-state child-placing agencies and the revocation of licenses. Overall, the bill aims to streamline the adoption process while ensuring the protection of children's welfare and the integrity of child-placing agencies.

Statutes affected:
INTRODUCED: 14-15-09, 14-15-11, 50-12-09, 50-12-10, 50-12-17
Adopted by the House Human Services Committee: 14-15-09, 14-15-11, 50-12-09, 50-12-10, 50-12-17
FIRST ENGROSSMENT: 14-15-09, 14-15-11, 50-12-09, 50-12-10, 50-12-17
PREFILED: 14-15-09, 14-15-11, 50-12-09, 50-12-10, 50-12-17