HB190 Summary

• Comprehensively revises Alabama's Minor Adoption Code (§26-10E) and Adult Adoption Code (§26-10F) to clarify procedures, investigations, and notice requirements for adoption proceedings.

• Establishes detailed pre-placement and post-placement investigation requirements for minor adoptions, including background checks, reference letters, medical evaluations, and home safety inspections; creates new §26-10E-19.1 for adoptees in permanent custody of the State Department of Human Resources.

• Revises notice procedures for adoption proceedings, specifying which parties must be notified, timeframes for response (30 days), and methods of service; clarifies that failure to respond may result in implied consent.

• Provides procedures for revocation of express consent or relinquishment, allowing withdrawal within five business days of child's birth or signing, with specific filing and witness requirements.

• Expands the role of the State Department of Human Resources and county departments in adoption proceedings; adds definition of "de facto parent-child relationship" for adult adoption purposes; becomes effective January 1, 2026.