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 requirement for a petition for adoption to include specific details about the individual to be adopted and the petitioner, as well as the necessity for an investigation by a licensed child-placing agency or the department in cases of conflict of interest. The bill also introduces new provisions regarding the compensation of child-placing agencies, stipulating that fees must be reasonable, itemized, and not contingent upon the adoption's success. Additionally, it clarifies the grounds for revocation of a child-placing agency's license and establishes penalties for violations of the adoption laws.

Furthermore, the bill repeals sections related to out-of-state child-placing agencies and the revocation of licenses, streamlining the legal framework governing adoption in North Dakota. It emphasizes the importance of ensuring that the adoption process is in the best interest of the child while also protecting the rights and responsibilities of all parties involved. The changes aim to enhance the clarity and efficiency of the adoption process, ensuring that it is conducted fairly and transparently.

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
Enrollment: 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