The Committee on Judiciary proposes the following amendment (LC-415.VR0001H):

Amend the bill, as and if amended, SECTION 3, Section 63-7-2320(D)(3), by adding a subitem to read:

   (c) In accordance with the federal Multiethnic Placement Act (MEPA), the Department of Social Services must not deny to any individual the opportunity to become a foster or adoptive parent based on the race, color, or national origin of the individual, or of the child. MEPA also provides that this law shall not be construed to adversely affect the application of the Indian Child Welfare Act, which contains preferences for the placement of eligible American Indian and Alaska Native Children in foster care, guardianship, or adoptive homes. Also, the department must not discriminate regarding the application or licensure of a kinship foster family or kinship adoptive family on the basis of age, disability, religion, or marital status.

Renumber sections to conform.

Amend title to conform.