MS HB1337

Authorizes adult adoptions in Mississippi chancery courts, allowing adults to be adopted either by written consent or if determined to have an intellectual disability.

Modifies jurisdiction requirements to include adult adoptees alongside minors in adoption proceedings, with residency and connection standards applied accordingly.

Requires only the sworn written consent of the adult to be adopted; eliminates home study, order of reference, and other procedural requirements for consenting adults.

Establishes guardian ad litem appointment procedures when an adult lacks capacity to consent, with court authority to override the guardian's withholding of consent upon clear and convincing evidence that adoption serves the adult's best interests.

Effective July 1, 2025.