VETOES

(1)  it is in the best interest of the child to
terminate the natural parent's rights as to the child;

(2)  the child has been out of the custody of the
natural parent for at least [3 years] 1 YEAR;

(3)  the child has developed significant feelings
toward and emotional ties with the petitioner; and

(4)  the natural parent:

(i) has not maintained meaningful contact with
the child during the time the petitioner has had custody despite
the opportunity to dp so;

(ii) has repeatedly failed to contribute to the
physical care and support of the child although financially able
to do so; or

(iii) has been convicted of child abuse of the
child.

(c)  In determining whether it is in the best interest of
the child to terminate a natural parent's rights as to the child
under this section, the court shall request:

(1)  an investigation by an appropriate agency; and

(2)  a report of the investigation that includes
summaries of:

(i) the child's feelings toward and emotional
ties with the child's natural parents, the child's siblings, the
petitioner, and any other individual who may significantly affect
the child's best interest;

(ii) the child's adjustment to home, school,
and community; and

(iii) if the natural parent is absent, an
evaluation of the petitioner's attempts to locate the absent
natural parent.

(d)  A court may not grant a decree of adoption under this
section solely because a natural parent:

(1)  does not have legal custody of the child by
reason of divorce or legal separation; or

(2)  has been deprived of custody of the child by the
act of the other natural parent.

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