Termination of parental rights; authorizing execution of certain extrajudicial consent. Effective date.
Impact
The new provisions will streamline the process of voluntary relinquishment of parental rights by allowing consent to be executed before or after the child’s birth. This change aims to facilitate adoptions and lessen the bureaucratic hurdles faced by prospective adoptive parents. The bill asserts that consent can be revoked for 15 days post-execution, after which it becomes irrevocable unless specific legal grounds are established, thereby affecting the timelines and procedures for adoption in Oklahoma.
Summary
Senate Bill 471, introduced by Senator Hamilton, amends existing provisions under Oklahoma law regarding the termination of parental rights. The bill specifically addresses the process of obtaining extrajudicial consent from parents—both mothers and putative fathers—when a child born out of wedlock is to be adopted. The bill permits parents to execute a notarized consent document that waives their legal rights regarding the child and provides for the adoption process.
Contention
Notable points of contention may arise regarding the rights of putative fathers, especially concerning their ability to revoke consent and their overall involvement in the adoption process. Critics may argue that the bill could potentially bypass necessary deliberations and rights of natural fathers, especially if they are not adequately informed or represented legally during the consent process. The language of the bill and the stipulation that consent becomes irrevocable after a short window could raise concerns about the true voluntariness of such decisions.
Notable_changes
Additionally, the bill specifies the information that must be included in the consent form, including personal information and declarations about the advisement received by the parents. This clarity in documentation aims to protect both the adopting parents and the biological parents during the adoption proceedings, ensuring that all parties understand their rights and responsibilities.
Calling on Azerbaijan to immediately comply with international commitments regarding the release and treatment of prisoners of war, hostages, and other detained persons.