Interstate Compact Laws

Adoptions that take place in two different states (the birthmother lives in one state while the adopting parents live in another) require some additional procedures. The Interstate Compact on the Placement of Children (ICPC) affects all 50 states, the District of Columbia and the U.S. Virgin Islands. ICPC ensures that the laws of both states are observed in an adoption, establishes that the movement of children across state lines is legal, and maintains that the child is protected. Proof of Compliance with the ICPC is required at the finalization of the adoption. If the acting agency has failed to comply to the ICPC requirements, they may suffer major consequences, including the loss of their license.