Senator George Runner
Serving the 17th District which incorporates portions of the Los Angeles, San Bernardino, Ventura and Kern counties.

SACRAMENTO – Sen. George Runner (R-Antelope Valley) today presented a measure in the Senate Judiciary Committee that will add expediency to the adoption process and move children out of foster care and group homes faster.

Senate Bill 179, which passed with a 5-0 vote, shortens the time that a birth parent has to file a notice of appeal—from 60 to 30 days—when the court orders the termination of parental rights. Parental rights are only terminated following multiple failures by the birth parent to successfully reunify with biological children, typically due to serious problems including drug abuse, physical or mental abuse, or neglect.

“This bill is about stability for these kids who have greatly suffered, and finally have an opportunity for a loving family and home,” Runner said. “So many kids are getting lost in foster care and group homes. The state needs to lower hurdles for families willing to provide homes to kids whose biological parents have failed them.”

SB 179 also modifies the current process of serving notice to birth parents when the court terminates parental rights.

“This legislation is a cost effective way to expedite adoptions without adversely impacting the rights of birth parents and their kids,” Runner said. “All parties –
most importantly the adoptive families – will know sooner if there will be an appeal, and this will decrease anxiety and accelerate permanency.”

The bill now goes to the Senate floor for a vote.