NC H776

Allows minor parents and adoptees to be identified by affidavit from adult relatives, teachers, social workers, health providers, or adults who have known the minor for more than two years for adoption consent and acknowledgment purposes.

Permits newborn adoption consents and relinquishments to designate the child's name as "Baby [Last Name of Biological Mother]" or similar designation when the actual name is unknown.

Allows prospective adoptive parents in independent adoptions and agencies receiving relinquished children to apply to court for ex parte orders confirming custody for purposes of obtaining birth certificates, Social Security numbers, and federal and state benefits.

Extends the response deadline for biological fathers served by publication in adoption proceedings from 30 days to 40 days from first publication date.

Designates minor victims of human trafficking as abused and neglected juveniles subject to juvenile court jurisdiction and child protective services.

Establishes the Permanency Innovation Initiative Fund supporting adoption recruitment services, family engagement programs, and permanency training delivered by Children's Home Society of North Carolina.