1. A. Except as otherwise provided in this section, only a person for whom a favorable written preplacement homestudy has been prepared may accept custody of a minor for purposes of adoption. A replacement homestudy is favorable if it contains a finding that the person is suited to be an adoptive parent, either in general or for a particular minor, and it is completed or brought current within twelve (12) months next preceding a placement of a minor with the person for adoption
2. B. A court may waive the requirement of a preplacement homestudy for good cause shown, but a person who is the subject of a waiver must be evaluated during the pendency of a proceeding for adoption.
3. C. A preplacement homestudy is not required if a parent or guardian places a minor directly with a relative of the minor for purposes of adoption, but a preplacement homestudy of the relative is required during the pendency of a proceeding for adoption.

Laws 1997, HB 1241, c. 366, § 29, eff. November 1, 1997.