Federal bill targets unlicensed adoption middlemen with fines and prison time

What does this do?

HR 6170 would make it a federal crime for unlicensed, for-profit middlemen to connect birth parents with prospective adoptive parents for pay, advertise to find children or families for adoption, or give more than $2,500 to a birth parent before that parent has consulted a licensed agency or attorney. The law applies only when the adoption crosses state lines or uses the internet, phone, or wire transfers. Licensed adoption agencies, state-licensed attorneys, government child welfare agencies, and certain nonprofits under government contracts are explicitly exempt.

Who does it affect?

The bill affects unlicensed individuals and businesses that arrange adoptions for a fee, as well as birth parents and prospective adoptive parents involved in interstate private domestic adoptions. Licensed professionals and agencies operating under existing oversight are not restricted by this bill.

Why does it matter?

Unlicensed middlemen currently operate outside the oversight requirements that licensed adoption professionals must meet, and this bill would expose them to federal criminal and financial penalties. It has been referred to the House Judiciary Committee and has not yet become law.

What does it cost, and who pays?

• Individuals fined up to $50,000 per violation
• Organizations fined up to $100,000 per violation
• Up to 5 years in prison for individuals

Where does it stand?