MO HB1788

Reduces the minimum waiting period before birth parents can execute written consent to adoption from 48 hours to 24 hours after the child's birth.

Shortens the required placement period for adoptive parents from six months to three months before adoption can be finalized.

Requires written reports on children six months of age or older to be provided to the court, guardian ad litem, and prospective adoptive parents before physical custody transfer.

Creates new licensing and advertising restrictions (Section 453.700) requiring only licensed attorneys and child-placing agencies to advertise adoption services, with specified bar numbers or licensure numbers in directory listings; violations are class A misdemeanors.

Expands parental rights for birth parents under 18 years old to have court-appointed legal representation if financial hardship exists, with costs paid by prospective adoptive parents or the child-placing agency.