2016 Maryland Code
Family Law
Title 5 - Children
Subtitle 3B - Independent Adoption
Part II - Adoption Proceedings.
§ 5-3B-19. Considerations.

(a) In general. -- In ruling on a petition for a prospective adoptee's adoption under this subtitle, a court shall consider:

(1) all factors necessary to determine the prospective adoptee's best interests; and

(2) any report prepared for the court.

(b) "Disability" defined; withholding consent. --

(1) (i) In this subsection, "disability" means:

1. a physical or mental impairment that substantially limits one or more of an individual's major life activities;

2. a record of having a physical or mental impairment that substantially limits one or more of an individual's major life activities; or

3. being regarded as having a physical or mental impairment that substantially limits one or more of an individual's major life activities.

(ii) "Disability" shall be construed in accordance with the ADA Amendments Act of 2008, P.L. 110-325.

(2) In ruling on an adoption petition under this subtitle, a court may not deny the petition solely because the petitioner:

(i) is single or unmarried; or

(ii) has a disability.