HB 5815 Summary

• Amends MCL 710.51 to clarify adoption procedures and grounds for terminating parental rights in Michigan probate code.

• Judges must examine adoption investigation reports within 14 days and enter orders terminating parental rights if consent is genuine and adoption serves the child's best interests, with extensions available for hearings or good cause.

• A parent having legal custody who is married to the adoption petitioner cannot have their rights terminated, and the child does not become a ward of the court in such cases.

• Courts may terminate the non-custodial parent's rights if that parent failed to provide regular and substantial financial support or failed to visit, contact, or communicate with the child for 2 or more years before the adoption petition is filed.

• Prospective adoptive parents with court-approved placement may consent to all medical, surgical, psychological, educational, and related services for the child unless otherwise ordered by the court.