ADOPTION INVESTIGATIONS

This act adds a licensed professional counselor or a psychologist associated with a licensed child placing agency to the list of those authorized to conduct a full investigation into whether an individual is suitable as an adoptive parent for a child. (Section 453.070)

This provision is similar to HB 1032 (2012).

REVIEW OF INVESTIGATIONS PRIOR TO FINAL ADOPTION HEARING

This act requires a court conducting a final adoption hearing to determine whether the court has received and reviewed a full adoption and placement investigation report required under Section 453.070 and any investigation and social study required under Section 211.455, in termination of parental rights cases regarding the best of interest of the child.

This act also requires the Missouri Supreme Court to develop a standardized form to be used in all adoption cases, which shall include a checklist to verify all of the documents and procedures have been followed and reviewed by the judge prior to entering a final order. Such form shall be included as part of the adoption record. (Section 453.080)

ADRIANE CROUSE