The bill amends South Dakota's law regarding the requirements for conducting a home study before placing a child for adoption. Specifically, it stipulates that a home study must be completed by a licensed child placement agency, the Department of Social Services, or a certified social worker. Additionally, it mandates that a fingerprint-based criminal record check and a central registry screening must be included in the home study process. The bill also specifies that children in the custody of the department cannot be placed for adoption until a fingerprint-based criminal record check has been completed by the Federal Bureau of Investigation for each adopting parent.

Furthermore, the bill introduces a provision that the Department of Social Services will contribute $1,500 towards the cost of each home study required under this section, with the necessary funding to be budgeted through the general appropriation bill. It maintains that any individual who violates these provisions will be guilty of a Class 1 misdemeanor. This modification aims to streamline the adoption process while ensuring the safety and welfare of children placed in adoptive homes.

Statutes affected:
Introduced, 12/27/2024: 25-6-9.1
House Appropriations Engrossed, 02/24/2025: 25-6-9.1
House Engrossed, 02/25/2025: 25-6-9.1
Enrolled, 03/11/2025: 25-6-9.1