Rep. Bert Reeves, R - Marietta, is congratulated after the passage of HB-159, concerning adoption, in the house. Georgia lawmakers voted Thursday, Feb. 1, 2018, on a compromise over a major overhaul to make adoptions easier in the state. The deal will settle a long-running dispute among legislators over how to improve the state's outdated adoption laws, which hinder the creation of new families. Gov. Nathan Deal and legislative leaders say adoption is a priority for this session.
Rep. Bert Reeves, R - Marietta, is congratulated after the passage of HB-159, concerning adoption, in the house. Georgia lawmakers voted Thursday, Feb. 1, 2018, on a compromise over a major overhaul to make adoptions easier in the state. The deal will settle a long-running dispute among legislators over how to improve the state's outdated adoption laws, which hinder the creation of new families. Gov. Nathan Deal and legislative leaders say adoption is a priority for this session. Atlanta Journal-Constitution via AP Bob Andres
Rep. Bert Reeves, R - Marietta, is congratulated after the passage of HB-159, concerning adoption, in the house. Georgia lawmakers voted Thursday, Feb. 1, 2018, on a compromise over a major overhaul to make adoptions easier in the state. The deal will settle a long-running dispute among legislators over how to improve the state's outdated adoption laws, which hinder the creation of new families. Gov. Nathan Deal and legislative leaders say adoption is a priority for this session. Atlanta Journal-Constitution via AP Bob Andres

National

Georgia lawmakers focus on adoption code, curbing opioids

By R.J. RICO and BEN NADLER Associated Press

February 03, 2018 09:01 AM

ATLANTA

Georgia lawmakers have seemingly reached a breakthrough in the longstanding debate over revamping the state's adoption code.

The House on Thursday unanimously passed a sweeping revamp of the adoption code. The measure now goes to the Senate.

Speeding up the state's adoption process has been a top priority for many. Last year, efforts were derailed by a controversial amendment that would have allowed people to cite their religious beliefs and refuse to give children to LGBT couples.

Legislators are also considering whether to allow earlier Sunday alcohol sales and how to combat the opioid crisis.

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On Monday, a House committee will vote on whether to force drivers to use hands-free cellphone technology.

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