MS HB238

Removes residency requirement for adopting parents in Mississippi, allowing non-residents to adopt children in the state.

Authorizes judges to determine whether a home study is necessary in adoption cases, rather than making home studies mandatory for all adoptions except those involving relatives or stepparents.

Establishes criminal penalties for disclosing confidential information from closed adoption hearings or adoption records, including fines up to $1,000 and imprisonment up to one year.

Allows courts to hold persons in civil contempt for unauthorized disclosure of adoption records involving children, with penalties up to $500 in fines or 90 days imprisonment.

Takes effect July 1, 2020.