OK HB2174

Adoption proceedings must be brought in district court in the county where petitioners or the child reside, or in Tulsa County or Oklahoma County (changed from permissive to mandatory venue).

Courts shall appoint an attorney for minors in contested adoption proceedings and may appoint an attorney to examine all expenses and attorney fees presented for court approval in uncontested proceedings.

A Disclosure Statement of Adoption-related Costs and Expenditures must be filed before the final decree of adoption, listing all fees, expenses, and costs; the statement is a public record except for identifying information of providers and parties.

Adoption-related expenses are authorized for attorney fees, medical expenses, counseling, agency fees, birth mother living expenses (up to two months after birth/consent), transportation, home studies, and legally required governmental costs.

Modified child trafficking definition under 21 O.S. Section 866 to expand provisions regarding undisclosed receipt of money or compensation in adoption matters and added requirement to disclose receipt of any money immediately upon receipt.