MS HB1636

Authorizes county courts and youth courts to share concurrent jurisdiction with chancery courts over adoption proceedings in Mississippi, effective July 1, 2026

Amends Section 93-17-3 of the Mississippi Code of 1972 to allow adoption petitions to be filed in chancery court, county court, or youth court of the county where the adopting petitioner resides, the child resides or was born, or where the child was found if abandoned

Extends judicial authority for adoption-related decisions to county court judges and youth court judges, including approving adoptions despite a child's physical or mental conditions when adoptive parents acknowledge and accept such conditions

Allows county courts and youth courts to approve home studies conducted by licensed adoption agencies, licensed social workers, or court-appointed guardians ad litem

Permits chancellors, county court judges, or youth court judges to waive certain petition and procedural requirements for adult adoptees who consent to adoption