U.S. House Approves Peterson Adoption Resolution

(WASHINGTON, DC) - The U.S. House of Representatives Tuesday evening approved by voice vote a resolution authored by Seventh District Congressman Collin Peterson addressing the suspension of exit permit issuances for adopted children in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).

Peterson introduced H.RES. 588 after Montevideo, Minn. residents Kristin and Gregg Zeidler contacted Peterson's office to explain their family's situation.

In September 2013, the DRC stopped issuing exit permits to adopted children, effectively suspending adoptions from the country. The Zeidlers were among the more than 800 Congolese children and adoptive American families impacted by this suspension. The Zeidler's adoption has been recognized by both the U.S. and Congolese governments since December 2012 but they are not allowed to bring their daughter home.

"With hundreds of American families like the Zeidlers impacted by this suspension, we have a responsibility to act. A child's right to a family is a basic human right worthy of protection," Peterson said. "I hope that our mutual interest in the welfare of these children can lead us to a positive resolution."

The legislation recognizes the Congolese government's concerns about the ethical and transparent adoption process; respectfully requests that the issuance of exit permits and the adoption process resume; and encourages a continued dialogue between the United States and the Democratic Republic of Congo.

Peterson is also leading a bipartisan letter to the President, urging that he take action on this issue.