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How Ohio’s Adoption Modernization Act Supports Birth Mothers and Families

Considering adoption as a pregnant woman can be a daunting experience. On one hand, you may be hopeful about your child’s future but weighed down by financial worries on the other. The costs of prenatal care and everyday living can create a heavy burden.

But recently, there has been good news. Ohio Governor Mike DeWine signed the Adoption Modernization Act into law on December 19, 2024, which will become effective after 90 days. This legislation increases financial support for expecting mothers who choose adoption, easing their financial worries.

Let’s discuss how this new law can pave the way for a more supportive adoption process in Ohio. 

Key Changes Introduced by the Adoption Modernization Act

The Adoption Modernization Act includes several impactful provisions to support birth mothers and improve the adoption process in Ohio. These changes focus on increasing financial assistance and ensuring ethical oversight in financial transactions related to adoption.

Increased Financial Support for Birth Mothers

One of the most significant provisions of the new legislation is the increased financial support for birth mothers, raising living expense coverage from $3,000 to $6,000. This substantial boost allows you to better manage your basic needs during pregnancy and up to 60 days postpartum.

The funds can cover the following:

Baby Beside Woman
  • Rent or Mortgage Payments: Helping cover housing costs ensures birth mothers have a stable living environment during this critical time.
  • Utility Bills: Assistance with utilities can alleviate financial stress and allow mothers to focus on their health and well-being.
  • Food and Household Goods: These funds can be used to purchase nutritious food and necessary household items, supporting the mother and her baby.
  • Transportation: Reliable transportation is crucial for attending medical appointments, work, or school, and these funds can help cover related expenses.

Ethical Oversight of Financial Transactions

The Act also emphasizes ethical oversight by requiring that the birth mother’s living expenses be paid through licensed adoption agencies or attorneys. This requirement will ensure transparency in financial transactions, protecting birth mothers and adoptive families from potential coercion or misuse of funds. It will create a safer atmosphere for all parties involved in the adoption process, promoting trust and accountability.

Why the Adoption Modernization Act Is a Milestone

A Group People Having a Meeting inside the Office

Before 2008, Ohio did not allow the payment of birth mothers’ living expenses, which placed it behind other states that recognized the importance of supporting women during their pregnancies. This lack of financial assistance created barriers for many birth mothers considering adoption, often forcing them to choose between their financial stability and their child’s well-being.

This legislation represents the first adjustment to financial support for birth mothers since 2008. While the core rules surrounding living expenses remain unchanged, this update helps align Ohio with other states that have provided financial support to birth mothers since the 1970s and 1980s.

The increase gives birth mothers much-needed peace of mind and financial stability during a challenging time. It also helps create a more supportive adoption process, allowing birth mothers to focus on their well-being while making informed decisions about their baby’s future. 

How Open Arms Adoptions Can Help

Open Arms Adoptions can help you navigate the process of placing your baby for adoption in light of the Adoption Modernization Act. Our licensed, nonprofit adoption agency is committed to supporting birth mothers and adoptive families and provides guidance and resources for a smooth and compassionate adoption experience.

Parent with their adoptive child

Expert Guidance on Adoption in Ohio

We provide step-by-step guidance to both birth mothers and adoptive families. In compliance with Ohio adoption laws, we prioritize ethical and transparent adoption practices, ensuring all parties are treated respectfully.

Comprehensive Support for Birth Mothers

We recognize the unique challenges you face as a birth mother. We strive to give you comprehensive support, from financial assistance to counseling. Our agency provides free services for birth mothers, allowing you to explore your options without bias or judgment. 

Additionally, we offer post-adoption support services, ensuring you have access to the resources you need even after the adoption has been finalized. We aim to empower birth mothers like you to make informed decisions about your future while supporting you every step of the way.

Takeaway

The Adoption Modernization Act has introduced positive changes that benefit birth mothers and adoptive families in Ohio. The Act addresses longstanding challenges in the adoption process by increasing financial support for birth mothers and enhancing ethical oversight in financial transactions, fostering more supportive adoptions.

Our dedicated team here at Open Arms Adoptions can provide compassionate and expert guidance if you have more questions about Ohio adoption laws. Contact us today for information and support.

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Open Arms Adoptions is 501(c)3 non-profit agency licensed by the State of Ohio.

Our mission is to provide a loving, stable home to every child in need. We work tirelessly to create an environment that embraces the unique set of circumstances each of our birth parents, prospective adoptive parents and children bring to us. 
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Main Office
11 River St., Ste. B
Kent, OH 44240
Central Ohio Office:*
11 N High St.
Canal Winchester, OH 43110
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18 E. William St.
Delaware, OH 43015
*by appointment only. All correspondence should be mailed to the Kent address
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