Have you ever wished international adoption was easier? Us, too. Well, it’s about to get even harder and even more expensive. Starting on February 15th, a new accrediting entity will be overseeing and monitoring international adoption agencies. This new accrediting entity, Intercountry Adoption Accreditation and Maintenance Entity (IAAME), appointed by the U.S. State Department, will be requiring all families who adopt a child to pay $500 per child. This fee is not exclusive to MLJ Adoptions, but it will apply to families no matter which international adoption agency they choose to use.
The $500 fee per adopted child is not the only increase of fees that IAAME is requiring. Based on a new fee structure released on February 1st, and set to go into effect on February 15th, MLJ Adoptions’ accreditation fees will increase 367%.
It’s not too late for you to make your voice heard on this issue! Today and tomorrow, February 7th and 8th, are ALL CALL Days. The international adoption community is reaching out to senators and representatives to raise awareness and demand that they respond to this overreaching of the U.S. State Department.
The National Council for Adoption has provided agencies and families with valuable information about what this change means for them. MLJ Adoptions invites you to be part of the ALL CALL Days, and call your congressmen and congresswomen, asking for them to get involved with efforts being made by the Small Business Administration, the National Council for Adoption, international adoption agencies and other advocacy organizations regarding this new accrediting entity.
We believe that every child has the fundamental right to be raised in a family. In many cases, international adoption may be the only way for this to happen. We’re raising our voices on behalf of vulnerable children. More expenses for agencies and families stands in the way of the world’s most vulnerable children being raised in the families they deserve.
For any questions, please contact us and we’ll be happy to provide resources and assistance for advocating.