Arkansas Adoption Law
Permits single GLBT individuals to petition to adopt? Yes.
Arkansas law permits any adult or husband and wife to petition to adopt. ARK. CODE ANN. § 9-9-204.
Permits a same-sex couple to jointly petition to adopt? No
On Nov. 4, 2008, Arkansas voters approved a ballot measure to create a law (not a constitutional amendment) providing that an individual “cohabiting with a sexual partner outside of a [valid] marriage” may not adopt or serve as a foster parent.
Permits a same-sex partner to petition to adopt partner’s child or child of the relationship? No.
On Nov. 4, 2008, Arkansas voters approved a ballot measure to create a law (not a constitutional amendment) providing that an individual “cohabiting with a sexual partner outside of a [valid] marriage” may not adopt or serve as a foster parent.
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Last Updated: 11/13/2008