When adopting a child in Texas, prospective adoptive parents must obtain a copy of the child’s genetic history from the adoption agency or attorney. In addition, Texas law requires prospective adoptive parents to receive information about the child’s birth family, including any available medical or social history. The information must include the following:
- The names, phone numbers, and addresses of all living blood relatives of the child, including the child’s grandparents, great-grandparents, aunts, uncles, and cousins
- The medical history of all living blood relatives of the child
- Any available information regarding any genetic disorders or congenital defects within the family.
The adoptive parents must provide this information to the child’s physician and make it available to the child upon their request. The physician must also have access to any information in the child’s records regarding the adoptee’s genetic history.
This family law requirement is in place to help ensure that prospective adoptive parents are fully informed about their potential adoptee’s background and health history. It also allows them to decide whether they are prepared to provide care for a child with special needs.
The requirements for adopting a child in Texas
If you’re considering adoption in Texas, know about the requirements:
- You must be at least 21.
- You must be able to physically care for a child.
- You also need a stable income and a suitable home for the child.
- You must undergo a criminal background, child abuse, and neglect check.
Adopting a child in Texas
The state of Texas requires that potential adoptive families provide detailed information about their health, social, and educational history. This is to ensure that the children placed for adoption go to homes where they will be safe and have every opportunity to thrive. So, if you’re considering adopting a child from Texas, be sure to collect all the necessary paperwork and be prepared to answer any questions that may arise during the process.