Adoptions could require testing for fetal alcohol disorders

The Judiciary Committee heard testimony Feb. 17 on a bill that would require testing for fetal alcohol spectrum disorders.

LB324, introduced by Omaha Senator Gwen Howard, would require that state wards younger than 10 years old be evaluated for fetal alcohol spectrum disorders (FASD) upon filing for petition of adoption unless there is no indication of FASD.

“Children who suffer FASD face considerable challenges, as do the families that adopt them,” Howard said.

The state Department of Health and Human Services enters into a contract with an adoptive family, she said. If fetal alcohol issues are not addressed during the adoption process, Howard said, the department provides minimal services if FASD-related problems develop in the future. Testing would ensure that adoptive parents are more prepared and have access to necessary services, she said.

Jessyca Vandercoy, program director for Right Turn, testified in support of the bill, saying children exposed to alcohol in utero can have significant challenges.

Thirty-eight percent of Right Turn families are parenting a child diagnosed with FASD, she said, and some have more than one child with the disorder.

Parents often need help deciding how to best address symptoms that arise, Vandercoy said. If an adoptive family is made aware of the challenges they may face, she said, they could be better prepared to deal with a child with FASD later on.

Beth Conover, a genetics counselor and nurse practitioner, also testified in support of the bill, saying alcohol has a severe impact on babies in utero.

If the issue is identified early enough, she said, services can be provided that could help a child reach his or her full potential.

The committee took no immediate action on the bill.