In most states, only licensed adoption agencies are allowed to advertise for adoption; however, some states also permit advertising by biological parents, adoptive parents, and attorneys.
33
Thirty-three states restrict adoption advertising.
Laws are not followed or enforced. Enforcement is needed.
Laws are not followed or enforced. Enforcement is needed.
15
Fifteen states + DC have no laws about adoption advertising.
No laws = No protection. New laws are needed.
No laws = No protection. New laws are needed.
2
Two states allow unlicensed adoption brokers to advertise.
Amended laws are needed.
Amended laws are needed.
Even in states where adoption advertising is restricted, the laws are not followed or enforced.
This lapse has created an opportunity for unlicensed adoption brokers and out-of-state providers to flood the internet with predatory ads targeting pregnant women who are considering adoption.
But when unlicensed adoption brokers and out-of-state providers arrange adoptions, expectant mothers and adoptive parents miss out on the essential support services they would receive from a local, licensed adoption provider.
Misleading adoption advertising adds to the confusion and stress of vulnerable women and families who are already dealing with challenging circumstances.
TAKE ACTION
Use our interactive maps to find out where adoption advertising is allowed, and the AdoptChange Advocacy Toolkit to urge lawmakers to support pending legislation, enforce existing laws, and create new ones where necessary.
.png?width=2000&height=1333&name=Advertising%20Laws%20Map%20(9.29.23).png "Advertising Laws Map (9.29.23)")
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