Assembly Bill 70 proposes significant changes to the process of disclaiming parental rights in Wisconsin, particularly for parents of children under one year of age. The bill allows a mother, father, or alleged or presumed father to disclaim their parental rights in writing, using an affidavit, as an alternative to appearing in court. This affidavit must be witnessed and notarized, and it includes specific requirements such as a statement acknowledging the understanding of the consequences of terminating parental rights. The bill also stipulates that the affidavit can be executed by the father or alleged father before the child's birth, while the mother can only execute it after the child is born, within certain time limits. Additionally, the bill mandates that counseling and legal counseling be offered to individuals disclaiming their parental rights at the agency's expense.

Furthermore, the bill expands the scope of permissible payments related to adoption by allowing payments to licensed out-of-state private child placing agencies for services connected to adoptions, which is a departure from current law that restricts such payments to in-state agencies. This change aims to facilitate the adoption process and ensure that families have access to necessary services regardless of state lines. Overall, Assembly Bill 70 seeks to streamline the process of terminating parental rights while ensuring that parents are informed and supported throughout the process.

Statutes affected:
Bill Text: 48.41(1), 48.41