MS HB1134

Allows unmarried adults and married persons whose spouses do not cohabit with them to adopt, with only the consenting adult becoming the legal parent.

Requires out-of-state prospective adoptive parents in emergency situations to complete and provide the court with a satisfactory Interstate Compact for Placement of Children (ICPC) home study before adoption proceedings.

Permits a married person whose spouse does not join in the adoption petition if the spouses do not cohabit or reside together, or in circumstances the court determines are in the child's best interest.

Expands who may conduct home studies to include court-appointed guardians ad litem with knowledge or training in conducting home studies if directed by the court.

Effective date: July 1, 2020.