The impact of AB 2353 is significant as it aims to simplify the adoption process for legal guardians and reduce the costs typically associated with independent adoptions. By aligning the guardian adoption processes more closely with those of stepparent adoptions, the bill potentially alleviates some barriers that guardians currently face. However, this also introduces a mandate for investigative reports that must be completed as part of the process, which may require additional resources from county welfare and probation departments.
Summary
Assembly Bill 2353 seeks to amend existing California adoption law by establishing streamlined procedures for legal guardians wishing to adopt a child. This bill allows a legal guardian who has maintained this status for over one year to file for adoption without the burdensome requirements associated with independent adoptions. The bill mirrors procedures established for stepparent adoptions but introduces more specific requirements regarding the consideration of investigative reports prior to granting adoption.
Contention
A notable point of contention surrounding AB 2353 is the omission of reimbursement to local agencies for mandates imposed by the bill. While it expands responsibilities of county welfare departments and probation officers, it states that no reimbursement is required for these added costs. Critics may argue that this could strain local resources already facing budget constraints, especially in welfare services, which could impede the effective implementation of the bill's provisions.