MO HB556

Changes the deadline for men to file paternity actions or register with the putative father registry from 15 days to 60 days after a child's birth in adoption proceedings.

Modifies section 192.016 to establish procedures for the putative father registry, including registration of adjudicated fathers, those filing notice of intent to claim paternity, and those adjudicated by other states.

Requires the Department of Health and Senior Services to maintain the putative father registry, create registration forms, distribute public information materials, and establish a dedicated "Putative Father Registry Fund" for administration.

Specifies that failure to file within the 60-day window waives a man's right to withhold consent to adoption unless he was defrauded by the mother about the pregnancy or birth status.

Requires courts to verify within one business day whether required written consents for adoption have been filed and establishes procedures for consent execution, withdrawal, and court approval within three business days.