State 

Statutes

Series

U.S. Department of Health and Human Services

Administration for Children and Families

Administration on Children, Youth and Families

Children’s Bureau

Child Welfare Information Gateway

Children’s Bureau/ACYF

1250 Maryland Avenue, SW

Eighth Floor

Washington, DC 20024

703.385.7565 or 800.394.3366

Email: info@childwelfare.gov

www.childwelfare.gov

Collection of Family 

Information About Adopted 

Persons, Birth Parents, 

and Adoptive Parents: 

Summary of State Laws

Requirements regarding collection of information 

about those involved in an adoption differ from 

State to State. Each State establishes its own guidelines regarding who can collect information and 

what kinds of information may be collected regarding the child to be adopted, the birth parents, and 

the adoptive parents.

Who May Collect 

Information 

Parties authorized to collect information about 

those involved in an adoption range from governCurrent Through 

July 2003

Electronic copies of this publication 

may be downloaded at

www.childwelfare.gov/systemwide/

laws_policies/statutes/collection.cfm

To find statute information for a 

particular State, go to

www.childwelfare.gov/systemwide/

laws_policies/search/index.cfm

Order a copy of the PDF by calling 

800.394.3366 or 703.385.7565, or 

download it at

www.childwelfare.gov/systemwide/

laws_policies/statutes/collection.pdf
Collection of Family Information About Adopted Persons, Birth Parents, and Adoptive Parents www.childwelfare.gov

 This material may be freely reproduced and distributed. However, when doing so, please credit Child Welfare 

Information Gateway. Available online at www.childwelfare.gov/systemwide/laws_policies/statutes/collection.cfm.

ment agencies to individual social workers, depending on the 

State. Typically, this information is gathered and compiled on a 

form provided by a government agency, private child placement 

agency, or court appointed investigator (such as a social worker 

or other professional children’s worker), but some States require 

the birth parents and/or adoptive parents to file a written report 

containing specified information.

Generally, information obtained regarding the child includes 

medical history, genetic history, family background, placement 

history, and history of any type of abuse. Some States require 

specific types of information (such as educational background, 

interests, and hobbies), others are more general, and some 

States require more information than others. 

Overall, the information gathered about birth parents is more 

specific than that about the child being placed for adoption. 

States generally require information about birth parents’ medical 

history, family history, religious background, ethnic and racial 

background, and educational level attained. Some States allow 

for information to be collected on physical appearance, talents, 

hobbies, field of occupation, and drugs taken during pregnancy.

Typically, prior to or immediately after an adoption petition is 

filed, an investigation of the prospective parents is carried out 

to determine the suitability of the home for a minor child. The 

report produced from such investigations is known as the home 

study or pre-placement report. In general, the following information is included in the home study or pre-placement report:

Adoptive parents’ emotional maturity 

Marriage and family relationships 

Motivation to adopt 

Parenting and integration of the child into the family 

Family environment 

Physical and health history of the applicants

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Information 

About the 

Adopted Person

Information 

About Birth 

Parents

Information 

About Adoptive 

Parents
Collection of Family Information About Adopted Persons, Birth Parents, and Adoptive Parents www.childwelfare.gov

 This material may be freely reproduced and distributed. However, when doing so, please credit Child Welfare 

Information Gateway. Available online at www.childwelfare.gov/systemwide/laws_policies/statutes/collection.cfm.

Education, employment, and finances—including insurance 

coverage and child care plans if needed 

References and criminal background and child abuse 

clearances

For more information about the home study process, read the 

Child Welfare Information Gateway factsheet, The Adoption 

Home Study Process (www.childwelfare.gov/pubs/f_homstu.cfm).

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This publication is a product of the State Statutes Series 

prepared by Child Welfare Information Gateway. While every 

attempt has been made to be as complete as possible, 

additional information on these topics may be in other 

sections of a State’s code as well as agency regulations, case 

law, and informal practices and procedures. 
Collection of Family Information About Adopted Persons, Birth Parents, and Adoptive Parents www.childwelfare.gov

 This material may be freely reproduced and distributed. However, when doing so, please credit Child Welfare 

Information Gateway. Available online at www.childwelfare.gov/systemwide/laws_policies/statutes/collection.cfm.

Alabama

Agency or Person Gathering Information or Preparing Report

Statute: § 26-10A-19 

Department of Human Resources

Child placement agency 

Licensed investigating agency appointed by the court or department

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Contents of Report About Person to be Adopted

Statute: § 26-10A-19 

Physical and mental history

Any property owned by the adopted person

Any orders, judgments, or decrees affecting the adopted person

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Contents of Report About Birth Parents

Statute: § 26-10A-19 

Health and medical history

General family background 

Length of time child was in out-of-home care

Reasons for relinquishing the adopted person

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Contents of Report About Adoptive Parents

Statute: § 26-10A-19 

Suitability

Criminal background check

Social and financial information

Any other relevant information

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Alaska

Agency or Person Gathering Information or Preparing Report

Statute: § 25.23.100(d)

Department of Health and Human Services

Any other qualified agency or person designated by the court

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Contents of Report About Person to be Adopted

Statute: § 25.23.100(d)

Conditions and antecedents of the adopted person 
Collection of Family Information About Adopted Persons, Birth Parents, and Adoptive Parents www.childwelfare.gov

 This material may be freely reproduced and distributed. However, when doing so, please credit Child Welfare 

Information Gateway. Available online at www.childwelfare.gov/systemwide/laws_policies/statutes/collection.cfm.

Contents of Report About Birth Parents

Statute: §§ 25.23.185; 18.50.510

Age at time of adopted person’s birth

National origin, ethnic background, Tribal membership

Physical description

Medical history

Education completed

Religion

Existence of other children of the parents

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Contents of Report About Adoptive Parents

Statute: § 25.23.100(d)

Suitability of parents and their home 

American Samoa

Agency or Person Gathering Information or Preparing Report

Statute: § 45.0414

Department of Health

Child placement agency

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Contents of Report About Person to be Adopted

Statute: § 45.0414

Physical and mental condition of the adopted person

Adopted person’s family background

Adopted person’s attitude toward adoption

Length of time the child has been in the care and custody of the petitioner

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Contents of Report About Birth Parents

Statute: § 45.0414

Names of birth parents

Reasons for terminating parental rights

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Contents of Report About Adoptive Parents

Statute: § 45.0414

Suitability

Physical and mental health

Emotional stability 

Moral integrity

Ability to promote welfare of the adopted person 

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Collection of Family Information About Adopted Persons, Birth Parents, and Adoptive Parents www.childwelfare.gov

 This material may be freely reproduced and distributed. However, when doing so, please credit Child Welfare 

Information Gateway. Available online at www.childwelfare.gov/systemwide/laws_policies/statutes/collection.cfm.

Arizona

Agency or Person Gathering Information or Preparing Report

Statute: § 8-129(A)

The division

Agency or person placing the adopted person 

Court officer

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Contents of Report About Person to be Adopted

Not addressed in statutes reviewed; generally, health, genetic, and social history 

Contents of Report About Birth Parents

Statute: § 8-129

Health and genetic history and all non-identifying information about birth parents and other family members 

Contents of Report About Adoptive Parents

Statute: § 8-105(E)

Finances

Criminal background check

Moral fitness 

Religious background

Social history

Physical and mental health

History of child abuse or neglect

Inclusion in Adoption Registry

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Arkansas

Agency or Person Gathering Information or Preparing Report

Statute: § 9-9-212(b)

The Department of Human Services

Licensed child welfare agency or social worker

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Contents of Report About Person to be Adopted

Statute: §§ 9-9-212(g); 9-9-505

Social history

Health and genetic history

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Contents of Report About Birth Parents

Statute: § 9-9-505

Health and genetic history

Social history

Non-identifying information

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Collection of Family Information About Adopted Persons, Birth Parents, and Adoptive Parents www.childwelfare.gov

 This material may be freely reproduced and distributed. However, when doing so, please credit Child Welfare 

Information Gateway. Available online at www.childwelfare.gov/systemwide/laws_policies/statutes/collection.cfm.

Contents of Report About Adoptive Parents

Statute: § 9-9-212(b)

Suitability

Criminal background check

History of child abuse or neglect

The background check applies to all members of the adoptive household. 

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California

Agency or Person Gathering Information or Preparing Report

Statute: Fam. Code §§ 8706; 8817

State Department of Social Services

County adoption agency

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Contents of Report About Person to be Adopted

Statute: Fam. Code §§ 8706; 8817

Medical background

Psychological evaluation

Scholastic development

Developmental history and family life

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Contents of Report About Birth Parents

Statute: Fam. Code § 8817

Medical background

May provide blood samples for DNA testing

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Contents of Report About Adoptive Parents

Statute: Fam. Code § 8908

Criminal background check

Assessment of ability to provide adequate and proper care and guidance

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Colorado

Agency or Person Gathering Information or Preparing Report

Statute: § 19-5-207

Department of Social Services

Child placement agency 

Qualified individual

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Collection of Family Information About Adopted Persons, Birth Parents, and Adoptive Parents www.childwelfare.gov

 This material may be freely reproduced and distributed. However, when doing so, please credit Child Welfare 

Information Gateway. Available online at www.childwelfare.gov/systemwide/laws_policies/statutes/collection.cfm.

Contents of Report About Person to be Adopted

Statute: § 19-5-207

Physical and mental condition

Family background, including names of parents if obtainable

Child’s disposition toward adoption 

Length of time child has been in custody of petitioner

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Contents of Report About Birth Parents

Statute: § 19-5-207

Family background, including names, if obtainable

Reasons for terminating parental rights

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Contents of Report About Adoptive Parents

Statute: § 19-5-207

Physical and mental health

Emotional stability

Moral integrity

Ability to promote welfare of the adopted person

Suitability of match

Criminal background check

Child abuse and neglect and spousal abuse history

Drug convictions

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Connecticut

Agency or Person Gathering Information or Preparing Report

Statute: § 45a-727

Department of Children and Family Services

Child placement agency

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Contents of Report About Person to be Adopted

Statute: § 45a-727

Physical, mental, genetic, educational, and dental history (including neonatal records)

Immunization records

Family relationships

History of sexual, physical, or emotional abuse

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Collection of Family Information About Adopted Persons, Birth Parents, and Adoptive Parents www.childwelfare.gov

 This material may be freely reproduced and distributed. However, when doing so, please credit Child Welfare 

Information Gateway. Available online at www.childwelfare.gov/systemwide/laws_policies/statutes/collection.cfm.

Contents of Report About Birth Parents

Statute: § 45a-746

Age at birth of child

Heritage, talents, education

General physical appearance

Existence of other children of the parent 

Reasons for placing child for adoption

Religion

Occupation 

Medical and mental health history

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Contents of Report About Adoptive Parents

Statute: § 45a-727

Physical, mental, social, and financial condition 

Delaware

Agency or Person Gathering Information or Preparing Report

Statute: Tit. 13, § 901

Department of Services for Children, Youth and Their Families 

Licensed placing agency

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Contents of Report About Person to be Adopted

Statute: Tit. 13, § 912

Physical and mental history

Family background and eligibility for adoption

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Contents of Report About Birth Parents

Statute: Tit. 13, § 924

Health and medical information 

Contents of Report About Adoptive Parents

Statute: Tit. 13, § 912

Suitability of placement

Relevant information about both, if applicable, adoptive parents and home

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District of Columbia

Agency or Person Gathering Information or Preparing Report

Statute: § 16-307

Child placement agency

Mayor

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Collection of Family Information About Adopted Persons, Birth Parents, and Adoptive Parents www.childwelfare.gov

10 This material may be freely reproduced and distributed. However, when doing so, please credit Child Welfare 

Information Gateway. Available online at www.childwelfare.gov/systemwide/laws_policies/statutes/collection.cfm.

Contents of Report About Person to be Adopted

Statute: § 16-307

Environs, antecedents, assets of the child

Whether child is the proper subject for adoption

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Contents of Report About Birth Parents

Not addressed in statutes reviewed 

Contents of Report About Adoptive Parents

Statute: §§ 16-307; 16-309

Suitability of home

Whether a subsidy will be given

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Florida

Agency or Person Gathering Information or Preparing Report

Statute: § 63.082

Department of Children and Family Services

Child placement agency

Licensed professional

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Contents of Report About Person to be Adopted

Statute: § 63.082

Biological, sociological, and medical history 

Contents of Report About Birth Parents

Statute: § 63.082

Biological, sociological, and medical history 

Contents of Report About Adoptive Parents

Statute: §§ 63.092; 63.125

Suitability

Family background

Medical history 

Criminal background and child abuse registry records check 

Physical environment of home

Financial condition 

Documentation on counseling and education on adoptive parenting

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Collection of Family Information About Adopted Persons, Birth Parents, and Adoptive Parents www.childwelfare.gov

11 This material may be freely reproduced and distributed. However, when doing so, please credit Child Welfare 

Information Gateway. Available online at www.childwelfare.gov/systemwide/laws_policies/statutes/collection.cfm.

Georgia

Agency or Person Gathering Information or Preparing Report

Statute: § 19-8-16

Department of Human Resources

Child placement agency 

Any court-appointed agent

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Contents of Report About Person to be Adopted

Statute: § 19-8-17

Physical and mental condition

General family background 

Circumstances under which child came to be placed for adoption

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Contents of Report About Birth Parents

Statute: § 19-8-23

Genetic, social, and health history 

Contents of Report About Adoptive Parents

Statute: §§ 19-8-16; 19-8-17

Financial, physical, and mental capability

Criminal background check

Suitability of the home

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Guam

Agency or Person Gathering Information or Preparing Report

Statute: Tit. 19, § 4210

Division of Social Services 

Contents of Report About Person to be Adopted

Statute: Tit. 19, § 4210

Social history

Present condition of the child 

Adjustment to petitioner’s home, if applicable

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Contents of Report About Birth Parents

Not addressed in statues reviewed; generally, health and genetic history 

Contents of Report About Adoptive Parents

Statute: Tit. 19, § 4210

Suitability

Any other pertinent information

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Collection of Family Information About Adopted Persons, Birth Parents, and Adoptive Parents www.childwelfare.gov

12 This material may be freely reproduced and distributed. However, when doing so, please credit Child Welfare 

Information Gateway. Available online at www.childwelfare.gov/systemwide/laws_policies/statutes/collection.cfm.

Hawaii

Agency or Person Gathering Information or Preparing Report

Statute: § 578-14.5

Department of Health

Department of Human Services

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Contents of Report About Person to be Adopted

Statute: § 578-14.5

Medical background, including potential genetic or inheritable diseases 

Contents of Report About Birth Parents

Statute: § 578-14.5

Medical background, including potential genetic or inheritable diseases 

Contents of Report About Adoptive Parents

Statute: § 578-8

Whether the parent is mentally, physically, and otherwise suitable to adopt a child

Whether the parent is financially capable of giving the child a proper home and education

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Idaho

Agency or Person Gathering Information or Preparing Report

Statute: § 16-1506

Department of Health and Welfare

Child placement agency 

Private investigator

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Contents of Report About Person to be Adopted

Statute: § 16-1506

Medical and social history 

Contents of Report About Birth Parents

Statute: § 16-1506

Medical and social history

Genetic information

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Contents of Report About Adoptive Parents

Statute: § 16-1506

Social investigation 
Collection of Family Information About Adopted Persons, Birth Parents, and Adoptive Parents www.childwelfare.gov

13 This material may be freely reproduced and distributed. However, when doing so, please credit Child Welfare 

Information Gateway. Available online at www.childwelfare.gov/systemwide/laws_policies/statutes/collection.cfm.

Illinois

Agency or Person Gathering Information or Preparing Report

Statute: 750 ILCS § 50/18.4

Child placement agency

The Department of Children and Family Services

Applicable court

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Contents of Report About Person to be Adopted

Statute: 750 ILCS §§ 50/18.4; 50/18.05; 50/6

Medical and mental health history

Updated medical information, which can be made available through a registry

Religion

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Contents of Report About Birth Parents

Statute: 750 ILCS § 50/18.4

Age

Race, religion, ethnic background

General physical appearance

Education, occupation, hobbies

Existence of other children

Country of origin and reason for emigrating (if applicable) 

Health history of birth parents and immediate relatives

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Contents of Report About Adoptive Parents

Statute: 750 ILCS § 50/6

Criminal background check

Character

Reputation 

Health

General standing in community

Religion

Suitability of home

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Indiana

Agency or Person Gathering Information or Preparing Report

Statute: § 31-19-23-1

Child placement agency

Division of Family and Child Services

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Collection of Family Information About Adopted Persons, Birth Parents, and Adoptive Parents www.childwelfare.gov

14 This material may be freely reproduced and distributed. However, when doing so, please credit Child Welfare 

Information Gateway. Available online at www.childwelfare.gov/systemwide/laws_policies/statutes/collection.cfm.

Contents of Report About Person to be Adopted

Statute: §§ 31-19-2-7; 31-19-8-6

Health status and medical history including neonatal, psychological, physiological, and medical care

Former environment and antecedents of the child

Possible barriers to the child’s placement including ethnic background, race, language, disabilities, or a 

member of a sibling group

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Contents of Report About Birth Parents

Statute: §§ 31-19-2-7; 31-19-17-2

Health status

Medical history

Medical, psychological, and educational records

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Contents of Report About Adoptive Parents

Statute: §§ 31-19-8-6; 31-19-2-7.5

Suitability of the home

Financial conditions

Criminal background check

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Iowa

Agency or Person Gathering Information or Preparing Report

Statute: § 600.8

Child placement agency

The department

Investigator

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Contents of Report About Person to be Adopted

Statute: § 600A.4

Family medical and social history, including any known disorders

Developmental history

Racial, ethnic, and religious background

Prior and existing relationships

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Contents of Report About Birth Parents

Statute: § 600A.4

Family medical and social history

General physical description

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Collection of Family Information About Adopted Persons, Birth Parents, and Adoptive Parents www.childwelfare.gov

15 This material may be freely reproduced and distributed. However, when doing so, please credit Child Welfare 

Information Gateway. Available online at www.childwelfare.gov/systemwide/laws_policies/statutes/collection.cfm.

Contents of Report About Adoptive Parents

Statute: § 600.8

Suitability of home

Emotional maturity

Finances 

Health

Relationships

Criminal background check

History of child abuse and neglect

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Kansas

Agency or Person Gathering Information or Preparing Report

Statute: § 59-2132

Child placement agency

Court-approved social worker

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Contents of Report About Person to be Adopted

Statute: § 59-2130

Genetic, medical, and social history

Hospital records

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Contents of Report About Birth Parents

Statute: § 59-2130

Genetic, medical, and social history

Contents of Report About Adoptive Parents

Statute: § 59-2132

Home investigation

Ability to care for adopted person 

Financial capability

Criminal background and child abuse and neglect registry check

Genetic and medical history

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Kentucky

Agency or Person Gathering Information or Preparing Report

Statute: § 199.510

Cabinet for Families and Children

Individual, agency, or institution designated by the court

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Collection of Family Information About Adopted Persons, Birth Parents, and Adoptive Parents www.childwelfare.gov

16 This material may be freely reproduced and distributed. However, when doing so, please credit Child Welfare 

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Contents of Report About Person to be Adopted

Statute: § 199.510

Whether the child is suitable for adoption

Full description of any property owned by the child

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Contents of Report About Birth Parents

Statute: § 199.520

Health history of parents and their blood relatives

Any other non-identifying information

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Contents of Report About Adoptive Parents

Statute: § 199.510

Financial and moral fitness

Whether adoption is in the best interest of the adopted person

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Louisiana

Agency or Person Gathering Information or Preparing Report

Statute: Ch. Code. Art. 1207

Department of Social Services

Department may delegate investigation to a child placement agency

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Contents of Report About Person to be Adopted

Statute: Ch. Code. Art. 1207

Availability of child for adoption

Physical and mental condition

Other factors regarding suitability for adoption

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Contents of Report About Birth Parents

Statute: Ch. Code. Art. 1124; 1125

Family history

Medical and genetic history

Wishes concerning release of non-identifying information in the event of medical necessity

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Contents of Report About Adoptive Parents

Statute: Ch. Code. Art. 1177

Stability of home

Moral fitness

Financial capacity 

Adequacy of home

Criminal background check

Complaints of child abuse and neglect

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Collection of Family Information About Adopted Persons, Birth Parents, and Adoptive Parents www.childwelfare.gov

17 This material may be freely reproduced and distributed. However, when doing so, please credit Child Welfare 

Information Gateway. Available online at www.childwelfare.gov/systemwide/laws_policies/statutes/collection.cfm.

Maine

Agency or Person Gathering Information or Preparing Report

Statute: Tit. 18-A, § 9-304

Department of Human Services

Child placement agency

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Contents of Report About Person to be Adopted

Statute: Tit. 18-A, § 9-304

Entire medical, genetic, psychological, and developmental history

History of physical, sexual, or emotional abuse 

Immunizations and health care received

Conditions and antecedents of the child

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Contents of Report About Birth Parents

Statute: Tit. 18-A, § 9-304

Medical and genetic information

Drugs taken during pregnancy

Hereditary predispositions

Drug or alcohol abuse 

Medical, psychological, and social history

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Contents of Report About Adoptive Parents

Statute: Tit. 18-A, § 9-304

Screening for child abuse

Criminal history check 

Suitability

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Maryland

Agency or Person Gathering Information or Preparing Report

Statute: Fam. Law § 5-328

Any person authorized to place a minor child 

Contents of Report About Person to be Adopted

Statute: Fam. Law §§ 5-329.1; 5-316

Medical and dental records

Religious background

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Contents of Report About Birth Parents

Statute: Fam. Law § 5-328

Medical history

Religious background

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Collection of Family Information About Adopted Persons, Birth Parents, and Adoptive Parents www.childwelfare.gov

18 This material may be freely reproduced and distributed. However, when doing so, please credit Child Welfare 

Information Gateway. Available online at www.childwelfare.gov/systemwide/laws_policies/statutes/collection.cfm.

Contents of Report About Adoptive Parents

Statute: Fam. Law § 5-316

Religious background 

Massachusetts

Agency or Person Gathering Information or Preparing Report

Statute: Ch. 210, § 5A

Department of Social Services

Charitable corporation as assigned by the court

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Contents of Report About Person to be Adopted

Statute: Ch. 210, § 5A

Conditions and antecedents of the child

Federal registry for missing children check

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Contents of Report About Birth Parents

Statute: Ch. 210, § 5D

Medical, ethnic, and socio-economic information and level of education 

Contents of Report About Adoptive Parents

Statute: Ch. 210, § 5A

Suitability of home and as parents 

Michigan

Agency or Person Gathering Information or Preparing Report

Statute: § 710.46

Family Independence Agency

Child placement agency 

Employee or agent of the court

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Contents of Report About Person to be Adopted

Statute: § 710.27

Date and place of birth

Health and genetic history

Prenatal care; medical condition at birth

Medical, psychological, and dental information

Any abuse or neglect suffered by the child 

Records of immunizations and health care

Education records 

Physical description and family origin

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Collection of Family Information About Adopted Persons, Birth Parents, and Adoptive Parents www.childwelfare.gov

19 This material may be freely reproduced and distributed. However, when doing so, please credit Child Welfare 

Information Gateway. Available online at www.childwelfare.gov/systemwide/laws_policies/statutes/collection.cfm.

Contents of Report About Birth Parents

Statute: § 710.27

Medical, social, and genetic information

Hereditary disease disposition

Health at birth

Medical, psychological, and dental information

Drugs taken by mother during pregnancy

Racial, ethnic, and religious background

Achievements, e.g., educational 

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Contents of Report About Adoptive Parents

Statute: § 710.22

Emotional ties to the adoptive child

Capacity for love, affection, and guidance

Ability to provide education

Ability to foster the religion, racial identity, and culture of the child

Capacity to provide food, clothing, permanence, and medical care

Moral fitness 

Mental and physical health

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Minnesota

Agency or Person Gathering Information or Preparing Report

Statute: § 259.41

Licensed child placement agency

Minnesota Federally recognized Tribe

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Contents of Report About Person to be Adopted

Statute: § 259.53

Genetic, medical, and social history

The environs and antecedents of the child

The health and well being of the child in the home, post-placement

Level of child’s culture in new home

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Contents of Report About Birth Parents

Statute: § 259.43

Social and medical history 
Collection of Family Information About Adopted Persons, Birth Parents, and Adoptive Parents www.childwelfare.gov

20 This material may be freely reproduced and distributed. However, when doing so, please credit Child Welfare 

Information Gateway. Available online at www.childwelfare.gov/systemwide/laws_policies/statutes/collection.cfm.

Contents of Report About Adoptive Parents

Statute: § 259.41

Criminal background check

Medical and social history 

Current health

Assessment of parenting skills

Ability to provide financial support

Knowledge of adoption issues

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•

•

•

•

•

Mississippi

Agency or Person Gathering Information or Preparing Report

Statute: § 93-17-11

Any person, officer, or home as the court designates 

Contents of Report About Person to be Adopted

Statute: § 93-17-3

Doctor’s certificate showing mental and physical condition of the child

Sworn statement of all property owned by child

•

•

Contents of Report About Birth Parents

Statute: § 93-17-205

Medical and social history

Genetic information

Prenatal care

Medical condition of mother at birth of child and prior to petition for adoption

•

•

•

•

Contents of Report About Adoptive Parents

Statute: § 93-17-11

Suitability

Any other relevant information

•

•

Missouri

Agency or Person Gathering Information or Preparing Report

Statute: § 453.070

Division of Family Services

Juvenile court officer

Child placement agency

Social worker

Other suitable person appointed by the court

•

•

•

•

•
Collection of Family Information About Adopted Persons, Birth Parents, and Adoptive Parents www.childwelfare.gov

21 This material may be freely reproduced and distributed. However, when doing so, please credit Child Welfare 

Information Gateway. Available online at www.childwelfare.gov/systemwide/laws_policies/statutes/collection.cfm.

Contents of Report About Person to be Adopted

Statute: § 453.070

Suitability of the child for adoption

Whether child is a potential subsidy recipient

•

•

Contents of Report About Birth Parents

Not addressed in statutes reviewed; generally, health and genetic history 

Contents of Report About Adoptive Parents

Statute: § 453.070

Condition of the home

Education level

Financial, medical, marital, and psychological status

Criminal background check

•

•

•

•

Montana

Agency or Person Gathering Information or Preparing Report

Statute: §§ 42-3-101, 42-3-202

Department of Public Health and Human Services

Child placement agency

Social worker

•

•

•

Contents of Report About Person to be Adopted

Not addressed in statutes reviewed; generally, health, genetic, and social history 

Contents of Report About Birth Parents

Statute: § 42-3-101

Medical and social history

Tribal affiliation, if applicable

•

•

Contents of Report About Adoptive Parents

Statute: §§ 43-3-203, 42-2-204

Criminal background check

Child abuse and neglect check 

Medical and social history, and current health

Parenting skills 

Marital status

Age, nationality

Financial situation 

Awareness of adoption issues such as cross-cultural adoption

•

•

•

•

•

•

•

•
Collection of Family Information About Adopted Persons, Birth Parents, and Adoptive Parents www.childwelfare.gov

22 This material may be freely reproduced and distributed. However, when doing so, please credit Child Welfare 

Information Gateway. Available online at www.childwelfare.gov/systemwide/laws_policies/statutes/collection.cfm.

Nebraska

Agency or Person Gathering Information or Preparing Report

Statute: § 43-107

Child placement agency

Department of Health and Human Services

•

•

Contents of Report About Person to be Adopted

Statute: § 43-107

Complete medical history 

Contents of Report About Birth Parents

Statute: § 43-107

Medical history of both birth parents and biological family, if available 

Contents of Report About Adoptive Parents

Statute: § 43-107

Suitability

Criminal history check

Central register check for history of child abuse

•

•

•

Nevada

Agency or Person Gathering Information or Preparing Report

Statute: § 127.152

Child welfare services agency

Child placing agency

•

•

Contents of Report About Person to be Adopted

Statute: §§ 127.120; 127.152

Medical records

Sociological and medical history 

Behavioral, emotional, psychological problems

Any special needs

Determination of Indian heritage

•

•

•

•

•

Contents of Report About Birth Parents

Statute: § 127.152

Medical and sociological history 

Contents of Report About Adoptive Parents

Statute: §§ 127.120; 127.281; 127.2805

Suitability

Medical, mental, moral, and financial competence 

Criminal background check

•

•

•
Collection of Family Information About Adopted Persons, Birth Parents, and Adoptive Parents www.childwelfare.gov

23 This material may be freely reproduced and distributed. However, when doing so, please credit Child Welfare 

Information Gateway. Available online at www.childwelfare.gov/systemwide/laws_policies/statutes/collection.cfm.

New Hampshire

Agency or Person Gathering Information or Preparing Report

Statute: § 170-B:14

Department of Health and Human Services

Child placement agency designated by court

•

•

Contents of Report About Person to be Adopted

Statute: § 170-B:14

Antecedents of the minor

Any special needs

•

•

Contents of Report About Birth Parents

Statute: § 170-B:19

Medical and health information about parents and relatives 

Non-identifying background information

•

•

Contents of Report About Adoptive Parents

Statute: § 170-B:14

Suitability

Ability to give proper home and education 

Potential to receive subsidy

•

•

•

New Jersey

Agency or Person Gathering Information or Preparing Report

Statute: § 9:3-41.1

Child placement agency 

Contents of Report About Person to be Adopted

Statute: § 9:3-41.1

Developmental and medical history

Personality and temperament 

•

•

Contents of Report About Birth Parents

Statute: § 9:3-41.1

Medical history, including hereditary conditions

Drugs and medications taken during pregnancy

Any known factor that may influence the current or future health of the adopted person

•

•

•

Contents of Report About Adoptive Parents

Statute: § 9:3-54.2

Suitability

Criminal background check

History of child abuse

•

•

•
Collection of Family Information About Adopted Persons, Birth Parents, and Adoptive Parents www.childwelfare.gov

24 This material may be freely reproduced and distributed. However, when doing so, please credit Child Welfare 

Information Gateway. Available online at www.childwelfare.gov/systemwide/laws_policies/statutes/collection.cfm.

New Mexico

Agency or Person Gathering Information or Preparing Report

Statute: § 32A-5-14

Department of Children, Youth and Families

Agency 

Investigators approved by the department 

•

•

•

Contents of Report About Person to be Adopted

Statute: §§ 32A-5-3; 32A-5-14

Health, psychological, medical, hospital, medication, and genetic history

Report of medical examination

Placement history 

Physical description

Educational achievements

•

•

•

•

•

Contents of Report About Birth Parents

Not addressed in statutes reviewed; generally, health and genetic history 

Contents of Report About Adoptive Parents

Statute: § 32A-5-14

Criminal record check

Medical certificate

Capacity and readiness for parenthood

Employment; financial resources

Emotional and physical health

•

•

•

•

•

New York

Agency or Person Gathering Information or Preparing Report

Statute: Dom. Rel. Law §§ 112; 116

Authorized agency

Disinterested person as approved by the court

•

•

Contents of Report About Person to be Adopted

Statute: Dom. Rel. Law § 112

Name

Date and place of birth

Religion

Medical history

•

•

•

•
Collection of Family Information About Adopted Persons, Birth Parents, and Adoptive Parents www.childwelfare.gov

25 This material may be freely reproduced and distributed. However, when doing so, please credit Child Welfare 

Information Gateway. Available online at www.childwelfare.gov/systemwide/laws_policies/statutes/collection.cfm.

Contents of Report About Birth Parents

Statute: Dom. Rel. Law § 112

Health and medical history

Hereditary diseases, if any 

Drugs or medication taken during pregnancy

Nationality, ethnic heritage

Religion

Education

Occupation

Talents, hobbies 

Physical description

•

•

•

•

•

•

•

•

•

Contents of Report About Adoptive Parents

Statute: Dom. Rel. Law §§ 112; 116

Marital, family status

Religion

Occupation; income 

Finances; property owned

Physical, mental health

Familial, social, and emotional circumstances

Child abuse history

•

•

•

•

•

•

•

North Carolina

Agency or Person Gathering Information or Preparing Report

Statute: § 48-3-205

Child placement agency 

Contents of Report About Person to be Adopted

Statute: § 48-3-205

Date of birth

Birth weight

Any information relevant to the decision to adopt or the minor’s well-being

Mental, genetic, physical, and emotional health

Prenatal and postnatal care

History of abuse

•

•

•

•

•

•
Collection of Family Information About Adopted Persons, Birth Parents, and Adoptive Parents www.childwelfare.gov

26 This material may be freely reproduced and distributed. However, when doing so, please credit Child Welfare 

Information Gateway. Available online at www.childwelfare.gov/systemwide/laws_policies/statutes/collection.cfm.

Contents of Report About Birth Parents

Statute: § 48-3-205

Age at birth of adopted person

Heritage

Educational level attained

General physical appearance

Health status of parents and their family members (medical, mental, and genetic history) 

History of abuse (emotional, physical, or sexual)

•

•

•

•

•

•

Contents of Report About Adoptive Parents

Statute: §§ 48-3-303; 48-2-502

Age, date of birth, nationality, and religious preference

Marital and family status

Home environment

Physical and mental health

Education and employment history

Property and income 

Financial obligations

Reasons for wanting to adopt

Criminal background and child abuse history check

•

•

•

•

•

•

•

•

•

North Dakota

Agency or Person Gathering Information or Preparing Report

Statute: § 14-15-11

Child placement agency 

Contents of Report About Person to be Adopted

Statute: §§ 14-15-11; 14-15.1-04

Conditions and antecedents

Medical and developmental history

•

•

Contents of Report About Birth Parents

Statute: § 14-15.1-04

Medical and social history

Assessment of the parent’s understanding and acceptance of the action

•

•

Contents of Report About Adoptive Parents

Statute: §§ 14-15-11; 14-15.1-04

Suitability of home

Criminal background check 

Emotional maturity, finances, health, and relationships

Any other factors that reflect on ability to care for child

•

•

•

•
Collection of Family Information About Adopted Persons, Birth Parents, and Adoptive Parents www.childwelfare.gov

27 This material may be freely reproduced and distributed. However, when doing so, please credit Child Welfare 

Information Gateway. Available online at www.childwelfare.gov/systemwide/laws_policies/statutes/collection.cfm.

Northern Mariana Islands

Agency or Person Gathering Information or Preparing Report

Statute: Tit. 8, § 1410

Division of Youth Services or its designee

Any qualified person or agency designated by court

•

•

Contents of Report About Person to be Adopted

Statute: Tit. 8, § 1410

Conditions and antecedents of the child 

Contents of Report About Birth Parents

Not addressed in statutes reviewed 

Contents of Report About Adoptive Parents

Statute: Tit. 8, § 1408

Suitability 

Ohio

Agency or Person Gathering Information or Preparing Report

Statute: §§ 3107. 09; 3107.031

Department of Health

Child placement agency

Assessor as defined in § 3107.014

•

•

•

Contents of Report About Person to be Adopted

Statute: § 3107.12

Attitude toward adoption

Physical, mental, developmental condition

Present and anticipated needs

Psychological background, including any prior abuse

Determination of Indian heritage

•

•

•

•

•

Contents of Report About Birth Parents

Statute: §§ 3107.12; 3107.09

Identifying data

Social history, including age, ethnic, racial, religious, marital, and physical characteristics

Educational, cultural, and work background

Medical history including major diseases, health problems, allergies, and ear or eye defects

Reasons for placing child for adoption

•

•

•

•

•
Collection of Family Information About Adopted Persons, Birth Parents, and Adoptive Parents www.childwelfare.gov

28 This material may be freely reproduced and distributed. However, when doing so, please credit Child Welfare 

Information Gateway. Available online at www.childwelfare.gov/systemwide/laws_policies/statutes/collection.cfm.

Contents of Report About Adoptive Parents

Statute: §§ 3107.031; 3107.032

Suitability to adopt

Other information and documents as per department regulation

•

•

Oklahoma

Agency or Person Gathering Information or Preparing Report

Statute: Tit. 10, § 7504-1.1

Department of Human Services

Child placement agency

•

•

Contents of Report About Person to be Adopted

Statute: Tit. 10, § 7504-1.1

Medical, dental, and psychological records

Any illnesses, accidents, allergies, or birth defects

Educational and immunization records

Developmental history

Any behavioral problems

Any history of abuse

Eligibility for subsidies

•

•

•

•

•

•

•

Contents of Report About Birth Parents

Statute: Tit. 10, § 7504-1.1

Medical, social, and psychological history

Gynecological and obstetric history of the mother

Consumption of drugs or alcohol by the mother

Exposure to toxic substances

Physical characteristics 

Medical and psychological history of relatives

Hereditary predispositions

Whether parents are related

History of sexually transmitted diseases

Circumstances leading to adoption

Criminal conviction of abuse; neglect; abandonment of adoptee, sibling, or other biological parent

•

•

•

•

•

•

•

•

•

•

•
Collection of Family Information About Adopted Persons, Birth Parents, and Adoptive Parents www.childwelfare.gov

29 This material may be freely reproduced and distributed. However, when doing so, please credit Child Welfare 

Information Gateway. Available online at www.childwelfare.gov/systemwide/laws_policies/statutes/collection.cfm.

Contents of Report About Adoptive Parents

Statute: Tit. 10, § 7505-5.3

Suitability

Verification that the home is a healthy, safe environment

Marital status

Employment; income

Access to medical care

Physical health and history

Criminal background check

Child abuse registry check

Note: Background checks apply to all members of the prospective adoptive household.

•

•

•

•

•

•

•

•

Oregon

Agency or Person Gathering Information or Preparing Report

Statute: § 109.304

Department of Human Services

Licensed adoption agency

•

•

Contents of Report About Person to be Adopted

Statute: § 109.342

Medical history from birth to time of placement

Any diseases, disabilities, or birth defects

Records of any medical examinations

•

•

•

Contents of Report About Birth Parents

Statute: § 109.342

Medical report

Physical characteristics

Gynecologic and obstetric report of mother

Record of potential inheritable genetic traits and other useful information biological parents are willing to 

provide

•

•

•

•

Contents of Report About Adoptive Parents

Statute: §§ 109.304; 109.309

Suitability

Home meets minimum standards

•

•
Collection of Family Information About Adopted Persons, Birth Parents, and Adoptive Parents www.childwelfare.gov

30 This material may be freely reproduced and distributed. However, when doing so, please credit Child Welfare 

Information Gateway. Available online at www.childwelfare.gov/systemwide/laws_policies/statutes/collection.cfm.

Pennsylvania

Agency or Person Gathering Information or Preparing Report

Statute: 23 Pa. §§ 2533; 2535

Public or voluntary child care agency

Adoption agency 

Intermediary who arranged the adoption

Social worker

Person designated by court

•

•

•

•

•

Contents of Report About Person to be Adopted

Statute: 23 Pa. §§ 2533; 2535

Physical, mental, and emotional needs

Age, sex, race 

Religious background

Description and value of property owned

•

•

•

•

Contents of Report About Birth Parents

Statute: 23 Pa. § 2533

Age, marital status when child was born and during the year prior to birth of adopted person

Racial and religious background 

Residence if rights have not yet been terminated

Medical history

•

•

•

•

Contents of Report About Adoptive Parents

Statute: 23 Pa. §§ 2530; 2535

Suitability

Age

Home environment

Family life, parenting skills

Physical and mental health

Social, cultural, and religious background

Facilities and resources

Ability to manage resources

•

•

•

•

•

•

•

•

Puerto Rico

Agency or Person Gathering Information or Preparing Report

Statute: Tit. 32, § 2699e

Department of the Family

Expert appointed by the court

•

•
Collection of Family Information About Adopted Persons, Birth Parents, and Adoptive Parents www.childwelfare.gov

31 This material may be freely reproduced and distributed. However, when doing so, please credit Child Welfare 

Information Gateway. Available online at www.childwelfare.gov/systemwide/laws_policies/statutes/collection.cfm.

Contents of Report About Person to be Adopted

Statute: Tit. 32, § 2699e

Social background 

Contents of Report About Birth Parents

Statute: Tit. 32, § 2699e

Social background 

Contents of Report About Adoptive Parents

Statute: Tit. 32, § 2699e

Social background 

Rhode Island

Agency or Person Gathering Information or Preparing Report

Statute: § 15-7-11

Department of Children, Youth and Families Services

Child placement agency

•

•

Contents of Report About Person to be Adopted

Statute: § 15-7-2.1

Health status and medical history at time of placement 

Genetic and social history

Neonatal, psychological, developmental, and medical care history

•

•

•

Contents of Report About Birth Parents

Statute: § 15-7-2.1

Genetic and social history

Medical history

Health status 

If deceased, cause of and age at death

Physical description 

Ethnic origins

Religion, if any

•

•

•

•

•

•

•

Contents of Report About Adoptive Parents

Statute: § 15-7-11

Suitability as parents

Criminal background check

•

•
Collection of Family Information About Adopted Persons, Birth Parents, and Adoptive Parents www.childwelfare.gov

32 This material may be freely reproduced and distributed. However, when doing so, please credit Child Welfare 

Information Gateway. Available online at www.childwelfare.gov/systemwide/laws_policies/statutes/collection.cfm.

South Carolina

Agency or Person Gathering Information or Preparing Report

Statute: § 20-7-1750

Any person certified by the Department of Social Services 

Contents of Report About Person to be Adopted

Statute: § 20-7-1740

Medical and developmental history 

Contents of Report About Birth Parents

Statute: § 20-7-1740

Medical history

Age, sex, race of birth parents and their families

Known genetic, psychological, metabolic, or familial disorders

•

•

•

Contents of Report About Adoptive Parents

Statute: § 20-7-1740

Suitability of home

Ability to care for child

Emotional maturity, finances, health, relationships, or other relevant characteristics

History of involvement in any proceeding concerning neglected, abandoned, abused, or delinquent children

Any adoption related counseling

•

•

•

•

•

South Dakota

Agency or Person Gathering Information or Preparing Report

Statute: § 25-6.9-1

Child placement agency

Department of Social Services 

Certified social worker

•

•

•

Contents of Report About Person to be Adopted

Not addressed in statutes reviewed; generally, health, genetic, and social history 

Contents of Report About Birth Parents

Not addressed in statutes reviewed; generally, health, genetic, and social history 

Contents of Report About Adoptive Parents

Statute: §§ 25-6.9-1; 25-4-15

Criminal record check 
Collection of Family Information About Adopted Persons, Birth Parents, and Adoptive Parents www.childwelfare.gov

33 This material may be freely reproduced and distributed. However, when doing so, please credit Child Welfare 

Information Gateway. Available online at www.childwelfare.gov/systemwide/laws_policies/statutes/collection.cfm.

Tennessee

Agency or Person Gathering Information or Preparing Report

Statute: § 36-1-116

Child placement agency

Social worker

Department of Children Services, for indigent petitioners

•

•

•

Contents of Report About Person to be Adopted

Statute: §§ 36-1-111; 36-1-133

Date and time of birth

Physical characteristics at birth 

Determination of Tribal membership

Value of any property owned or there is an interest

•

•

•

•

Contents of Report About Birth Parents

Statute: § 36-1-133

Nationality, ethnic background, and religious preference

Educational level

Occupation; talents or hobbies

General physical description

Existence of other children

Health history

Psychological or psychiatric information

•

•

•

•

•

•

•

Contents of Report About Adoptive Parents

Statute: § 36-1-116

Fitness to have care and custody of the child

Financial ability 

Stability of home

•

•

•

Texas

Agency or Person Gathering Information or Preparing Report

Statute: Fam. Code § 162.005

Department of Protective and Regulatory Services

Child placement agency

Other entity that prepares report

•

•

•
Collection of Family Information About Adopted Persons, Birth Parents, and Adoptive Parents www.childwelfare.gov

34 This material may be freely reproduced and distributed. However, when doing so, please credit Child Welfare 

Information Gateway. Available online at www.childwelfare.gov/systemwide/laws_policies/statutes/collection.cfm.

Contents of Report About Person to be Adopted

Statute: Fam. Code § 162.007

Health status at time of placement

Birth, neonatal, and other medical, psychological, and dental history

Results of any examinations

Immunization record

Social history, including any relationships with birth family

Educational history

Genetic history

•

•

•

•

•

•

•

Contents of Report About Birth Parents

Statute: Fam. Code § 162.007

Descriptions of birth parents and other family members 

Health and medical history, including any genetic diseases or disorders

Health status at time of placement

If deceased, cause of and age at death

Physical description

Nationality and ethnic background

Levels of education and professional achievement 

Religious background, if any

Psychological and social evaluations

Any criminal record

•

•

•

•

•

•

•

•

•

•

Contents of Report About Adoptive Parents

Statute: Fam. Code § 107.0511

Social study that meets the requirements set by the Board of Protective and Regulatory Services 

Utah

Agency or Person Gathering Information or Preparing Report

Statute: §§ 78-30-14; 78-30-17

Licensed child placement agency

The Division of Child and Family Services

Probation officer

•

•

•

Contents of Report About Person to be Adopted

Statute: § 78-30-17

Detailed health history

Genetic and social history

•

•

Contents of Report About Birth Parents

Statute: § 78-30-14

Reasons for placing child for adoption

Whether the birth parents have abandoned the child or are morally unfit for custody

•

•
Collection of Family Information About Adopted Persons, Birth Parents, and Adoptive Parents www.childwelfare.gov

35 This material may be freely reproduced and distributed. However, when doing so, please credit Child Welfare 

Information Gateway. Available online at www.childwelfare.gov/systemwide/laws_policies/statutes/collection.cfm.

Contents of Report About Adoptive Parents

Statute: § 78-30-17

Financial stability

Moral fitness for care, training, and supervision of the adopted person

•

•

Vermont

Agency or Person Gathering Information or Preparing Report

Statute: Tit. 15A, § 2-105

Agency placing the minor for adoption

Parent

•

•

Contents of Report About Person to be Adopted

Statute: Tit. 15A, § 2-105

Social and health history

Date, time, place of birth

First and middle name

Current health history

Immunizations and health care received

Any known abuse

School performance and special education needs

Any past or existing relationships

Any information necessary for determining eligibility for State or Federal benefits

•

•

•

•

•

•

•

•

•

Contents of Report About Birth Parents

Statute: Tit. 15A, § 2-105

Social and health history

Genetic history; any known hereditary condition

Use of drugs or alcohol

Racial, ethnic, and religious background

General physical description

Levels and types of education

Vocational, athletic, artistic, or scientific interests or achievements

Date of birth and sex of any other children and whether they have been placed out of home

Facts and circumstances related to the relinquishment of child

•

•

•

•

•

•

•

•

•
Collection of Family Information About Adopted Persons, Birth Parents, and Adoptive Parents www.childwelfare.gov

36 This material may be freely reproduced and distributed. However, when doing so, please credit Child Welfare 

Information Gateway. Available online at www.childwelfare.gov/systemwide/laws_policies/statutes/collection.cfm.

Contents of Report About Adoptive Parents

Statute: Tit. 15A, § 2-203

Age, date of birth

Nationality, race, or ethnic background 

Religious affiliation

Marital status

Family history

Parenting experience

Physical and mental health

History of drug or alcohol abuse 

Educational and employment history and special skills

Property, income, and debt

Whether there has been any abuse prevention orders

Any criminal convictions (other than minor traffic violations) 

Reasons for, and attitude about adoption

•

•

•

•

•

•

•

•

•

•

•

•

•

Virgin Islands

Agency or Person Gathering Information or Preparing Report

Not addressed in statutes reviewed 

Contents of Report About Person to be Adopted

Not addressed in statutes reviewed; generally, health, genetic, and social history 

Contents of Report About Birth Parents

Not addressed in statutes reviewed; generally, health, genetic, and social history 

Contents of Report About Adoptive Parents

Statute: Tit. 16, § 145

Information to demonstrate sufficient ability to bring up the child and furnish suitable education and nurture to the 

child 

Virginia

Agency or Person Gathering Information or Preparing Report

Statute: § 63.2-1208

Director of social services

Child placement agency

•

•
Collection of Family Information About Adopted Persons, Birth Parents, and Adoptive Parents www.childwelfare.gov

37 This material may be freely reproduced and distributed. However, when doing so, please credit Child Welfare 

Information Gateway. Available online at www.childwelfare.gov/systemwide/laws_policies/statutes/collection.cfm.

Contents of Report About Person to be Adopted

Statute: § 63.2-1208

Physical and mental condition

Circumstances under which child came to be placed with adoptive family

Suitability of child for the prospective parents

•

•

•

Contents of Report About Birth Parents

Statute: § 63.2-1208

Reasons for placing child for adoption

Whether parents have abandoned the child or are morally unfit to have custody

Physical, mental, social, and psychological history, if known

•

•

•

Contents of Report About Adoptive Parents

Statute: § 63.2-1208

Financial ability

Moral suitability

Whether the parent is in satisfactory health and mental condition to care for the adopted person

•

•

•

Washington

Agency or Person Gathering Information or Preparing Report

Statute: §§ 26.33.190; 26.33.210

Department

Individual approved by the court

Court employee

Child placing entity

•

•

•

•

Contents of Report About Person to be Adopted

Statute: §§ 26.33.350; 26.33.380

Complete medical history

Physical exam with lab tests and x-rays

Family background

Chronological history of circumstances surrounding adoptive placement

Psychiatric and/or psychological reports

Court reports related to dependency or custody or school reports

•

•

•

•

•

•

Contents of Report About Birth Parents

Statute: §§ 26.33.350; 26.33.380

Medical history

Mental or physical health history

Family background

Social history

Chronological history of circumstances surrounding adoptive placement

•

•

•

•

•
Collection of Family Information About Adopted Persons, Birth Parents, and Adoptive Parents www.childwelfare.gov

38 This material may be freely reproduced and distributed. However, when doing so, please credit Child Welfare 

Information Gateway. Available online at www.childwelfare.gov/systemwide/laws_policies/statutes/collection.cfm.

Contents of Report About Adoptive Parents

Statute: § 26.33.190

Home environment

Family life

Health

Facilities 

Resources

Fitness as a parent

Understanding of issues associated with adoption

Criminal background check

•

•

•

•

•

•

•

•

West Virginia

Agency or Person Gathering Information or Preparing Report

Statute: § 48-22-701

Any person or agency approved by the court 

Contents of Report About Person to be Adopted

Statute: § 48-22-701

Medical history

Description of the adjustment of the adopted person

•

•

Contents of Report About Birth Parents

Statute: § 48-23-601

Non-identifying written health history

Genetic and social history of birth parents and family

•

•

Contents of Report About Adoptive Parents

Statute: § 48-22-701

Suitability

Description of family members

Medical and employment histories

Physical description of home and surroundings 

Personal references

Other information deemed necessary by the court

Criminal background check

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Wisconsin

Agency or Person Gathering Information or Preparing Report

Statute: § 48.88

Child placement agency (public or private) 
Collection of Family Information About Adopted Persons, Birth Parents, and Adoptive Parents www.childwelfare.gov

39 This material may be freely reproduced and distributed. However, when doing so, please credit Child Welfare 

Information Gateway. Available online at www.childwelfare.gov/systemwide/laws_policies/statutes/collection.cfm.

Contents of Report About Person to be Adopted

Statute: §§ 48.93; 48.425

Medical record

Social and genetic history

Details of prenatal care and condition at birth

Investigation to determine if child is proper subject for adoption

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Contents of Report About Birth Parents

Statute: §§ 48.93; 48.425

Medical and genetic history

Report of any medical examinations

Non-identifying social history

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Contents of Report About Adoptive Parents

Statute: § 48.88

Suitability 

Wyoming

Agency or Person Gathering Information or Preparing Report

Statute: §§ 1-22-111; 1-22-116

Department of Family Services

Authorized agency

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Contents of Report About Person to be Adopted

Statute: §§ 1-22-111; 1-22-116

Background

Medical history, including hereditary diseases 

Any information that may be a factor influencing the adopted person’s present or future health

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Contents of Report About Birth Parents

Statute: §§ 1-22-111; 1-22-116

Medical, social, and psychological background and status 

Drugs or medication taken during pregnancy

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Contents of Report About Adoptive Parents

Statute: § 1-22-111

Background

Suitability

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