Bill would bar advertising of adoption placement services by unlicensed entities, sponsor says

Delegate Stephanie Smith presented House Bill 1258 to the Judicial Proceedings Committee as a child‑safety and consumer‑protection measure aimed at preventing unlicensed intermediaries from advertising adoption placement services in Maryland.

Smith told the committee that online advertisements can blur the line between licensed child‑placement agencies, attorneys and unlicensed intermediaries and that the bill would ensure the advertising marketplace reflects Maryland’s oversight standards. The proposal authorizes the Department of Human Services to refer violations to the Attorney General and treats violations as deceptive trade practices under the Maryland Consumer Protection Act, empowering civil enforcement and damages claims.

Committee members questioned whether the bill would impede lawful, out‑of‑state adoption arrangements and the constitutional reach of an advertising ban. Smith said the bill targets advertising in Maryland — not lawful private agreements — and that the Attorney General’s office helped draft amendments to address concerns without undermining the bill’s protective goals. She noted the bill passed the House with a 131–4 vote in favor and urged a favorable report.

Members asked about specific stakeholder input, including concerns raised by adoption attorneys; Smith said parties worked with the Attorney General and that an updated AG letter could be provided to the committee. The committee concluded the hearing after clarifying that the bill focuses on advertising and licensing rather than criminalizing cross‑border, lawfully arranged adoptions.