S.604 - Safe Home Act of 2025 (119th Congress)
Summary
The Safe Home Act of 2025, introduced as S.604 in the Senate, aims to address unregulated custody transfers of children. It amends the Child Abuse Prevention and Treatment and Adoption Reform Act of 1978 to define these transfers and improve awareness and prevention efforts. The bill mandates technical assistance, public awareness campaigns, and a report to Congress on the causes, characteristics, and effects of unregulated custody transfers.
Expected Effects
The act will likely lead to increased awareness and reporting of unregulated custody transfers. It will also provide resources and guidance to state, local, and tribal agencies to better address these situations. Ultimately, the goal is to ensure the safety and well-being of children involved in such transfers.
Potential Benefits
- Increased awareness of unregulated custody transfers.
- Improved resources and support for adoptive families.
- Enhanced data collection and reporting on the issue.
- Potential for policy changes at the federal and state levels to better protect children.
- Greater scrutiny of adoption processes and post-adoption support systems.
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential for increased government oversight into family matters.
- Possible unintended consequences of the definition of "unregulated custody transfer".
- The report to Congress may take time to produce actionable results.
- Increased burden on child welfare agencies.
- Potential for the act to be underfunded or ineffective if not properly implemented.
Constitutional Alignment
The Safe Home Act appears to align with the Constitution's general welfare clause, as it aims to protect children and promote their well-being. While the Constitution does not explicitly address adoption or child custody, the federal government has historically played a role in these areas through funding and regulation. The Tenth Amendment reserves powers not delegated to the federal government to the states, but this act primarily focuses on providing guidance and resources, rather than mandating specific state actions.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).