Mar. 13, 2017
HARRISBURG – To provide Commonwealth children who have incarcerated parents with stable families in a more timely fashion, Rep. Harry Lewis Jr. (R-Chester) drafted a bill to fulfill adoption requirements in a more efficient manner. It passed the House unanimously today.
House Bill 1530 expressly states that employees of a correctional facility may serve as a signed witness for the adoption of a child whose birth parent is incarcerated. While employees are currently permitted to serve as witnesses, many are unaware of that right or are concerned that the task would require their involvement in court proceedings should the adoption be disputed.
“Children deserve to live in happy, carefree environments free from adult issues. Unfortunately, that is not always possible. However, the bill I drafted works to minimize their exposure,” Lewis said. “My bill would eliminate the delay that occurs when trying to gather the two required signatures for a valid adoption consent.”
The bill now advances to the Senate for consideration.
Representative Harry Lewis
74th Legislative District
Pennsylvania House of Representatives
Media Contact: Alison Evans
717.260.6206
aevans@pahousegop.com
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