The bill H. 3097 proposes amendments to the South Carolina Code of Laws, specifically targeting the terminology and provisions related to adoption. The primary change is the redefinition of the term "special needs child" to "child with challenging adoption circumstances" in Section 63-9-30. This change is reflected throughout various sections of the adoption laws, including Sections 63-9-60, 63-9-750, 63-9-1370, 63-9-1750, and 63-9-2030, which are updated to ensure consistency with the new terminology. Additionally, Section 12-6-1140 is amended to align tax deductions with this new definition, and Section 63-7-1700 is revised to emphasize that the classification of a child as having challenging adoption circumstances should not delay or impede the adoption process.

Furthermore, the bill ensures that children who were classified as special needs prior to the enactment of this legislation will continue to receive the enhanced adoption subsidies they were entitled to. The bill aims to streamline the adoption process and improve the language used in the law to better reflect the circumstances of children in need of adoption, thereby promoting their placement in loving homes. The act will take effect upon approval by the Governor.

Statutes affected:
12/05/2024: 63-9-30, 63-9-60, 12-6-1140, 63-7-1700
Latest Version: 63-9-30, 63-9-60, 12-6-1140, 63-7-1700
12/06/2024: 63-9-30, 63-9-60, 12-6-1140, 63-7-1700