[Kangasue]

I am currently in the adoption home study process and moved to Arizona about six months ago. I will be a single mother. However, my boyfriend back home, is considering moving out here with me and I am concerned about how this might affect the placement of children. I know that if he moves here we will get married, so morality is not the issue. What is the problem is that he has Hepatitis C and I have not been able to find any policy that is clear about how this issue is addressed in the home study and if it is a reason for denial. Does anyone know? I really love him and don't want to have to chose between a child and a husband....

[tobeafamily]

For domestic adoption, he's covered under the Americans with Disabilites Act against discrimination as an adoptive parent - however since you're not married he isn't considered an adoptive parent with you, only a resident in the home.

He will need to have the same background checks as you, as well as a medical certification. A physician will need to certify to his general good health, has a reasonable expectation of living a natural life span and that his physicial and emotional state will not negatively impact a child's well-being. Further, you should be prepared to talk about how you'll manage prevention of exposure to his disease through body fluids, etc.

International adoption I understand less about, that's better for others.

HTH

Regina

[Kangasue]

Thanks for the info. I did not realize that Hepatitis C qualified under the Disabilities Act. Good news for him in any case! I look forward to hearing more from others and yes, it is a domestic adoption.