[Archive]

Originally Posted By Debbie

There alot of frustrations for all when it comes to interstate

adoption. Have you met the worker personally and have

you met the child face to face? I don't know why NJ wants to

visit your home first, but it may be a state policy. Generally,

we have asked a family to travel to our state to meet the child. Visits are difficult, but important for all in the transition.

If it looks like we are ready to proceed with an out of state

placement, then we have to submit triplicate copies of

alot of paperwork to our ICPC worker, who then submits

it to the receiving states ICPC worker for approval . Once

that state (in your case Wisconsin) gives approval, then the

child can be placed. Issues such as foster care per diem or

adoption subsidies should be worked out prior to the

placement occuring. Your agency in Wisconsin will be the

supervising agency. They will need to make sure that the

child receives the services needed while in your home prior

to finalization. The ICPC paperwork should also address the

child's eligibility for medicaid in the receiving state. Some

states are easy to place with and some are very difficult. It

just depends on the state. I know that some states do not

have full time ICPC workers and they are there to insure that

everything is in proper place prior to something occuring.

Preplacement visitations are important in order to have a successful adoptive placement. I am sure this was addressed

in your training. Unfortunately, moving a child to another state

adds to the stressors of a placement and subsequently

additional measures are put into place to ensure a successful placement.