Gus Bilirakis: “As the original sponsor of H.R. 2511, the Adoption Awareness Act, along with the gentleman from Virginia (Chairman…”

“As the original sponsor of H.R. 2511, the Adoption Awareness Act, along with the gentleman from Virginia (Chairman Bliley), a champion of adoption issues, I am pleased to endorse the Infant Adoption Awareness Act included in the child health bill. While this language is not as broad as the original legislation, it does reflect significant efforts to advance the purpose of the Adoption Awareness Act. This language was drafted with input from a wide variety of organizations, including those in the adoption and public health communities. Women facing unplanned pregnancies deserve to hear about their options from a well-trained counselor who can provide accurate, up-to-date information on adoption. This Act provides professional development for pregnancy counselors in adoption counseling. The training will enable pregnancy counselors to feel confident in their knowledge of the adoption process, relevant State and local laws, and the legal, medical, and financial resources which can be provided to women with unplanned pregnancies.”