[Congressional Record Volume 142, Number 65 (Friday, May 10, 1996)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E775]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                  ADOPTION PROMOTION AND STABILITY ACT

                                 ______


                           HON. EARL POMEROY

                            of north dakota

                    in the house of representatives

                          Friday, May 10, 1996

  Mr. POMEROY. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to make a statement regarding 
the passage of H.R. 3238, the Adoption Promotion and Stability Act. 
Specifically, I will address my remarks to title III of the bill which 
amends the Indian Child Welfare Act.
  The Indian Child Welfare Act was designed to protect the rights of 
Indian tribes to make decisions on the placement of their children. 
However, over the years, we have seen certain cases in which this law 
has not served the interests of children waiting for adoption nor has 
it treated some adoptive parents fairly. This causes me great concern. 
Adoptive parents and children have been faced with the threat that 
their children may be removed from the only home they have known. On 
the other hand, legitimate concerns have been raised by the native 
American community which must be taken in consideration.
  As the debate continues in the Senate and ultimately in conference 
committee, I will work with Congresswoman Pryce, the native American 
community and others in resolving the question raised in regards to 
this language and any further considerations of amending the Indian 
Child Welfare Act.

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