SB50 Summary

• Repeals the existing Alabama Adoption Code (Chapter 10A) and replaces it with two separate codes: the Alabama Minor Adoption Code (Chapter 10E) and the Alabama Adult Adoption Code (Chapter 10F), effective January 1, 2024.

• Establishes probate court jurisdiction over minor adoption proceedings with provisions to transfer cases to juvenile court for parental rights termination; allows court communication regarding adoption matters and requires expanded pre-placement and post-placement investigations including background checks, reference letters, and home safety inspections.

• Sets consent requirements for adoptions, allows consent withdrawal within five business days of birth or signing (except in limited circumstances), and provides procedures for contesting adoptions with expanded confidentiality protections for adoption records.

• Creates streamlined procedures for adult adoption with reduced investigation requirements (only if court orders), allowing single adults or married couples to adopt adults meeting specific conditions including disability, incapacity, kinship, or de facto parent-child relationships.

• Requires stepparent and relative adoptions to comply with one-year residency requirements and simplified investigations; clarifies that investigations are not required for adult adoptions unless ordered by the court.