What is a "second parent" adoption?

It is a legal procedure whereby parental rights can be established between a partner (second parent) and the natural or adoptive children of a same-sex partner (parent).

Does a "second parent" adoption have any effect on the rights of the natural or first adoptive parent?

No. The second parent's adoption establishes parental rights but does not terminate the existing parental rights of the natural or first adoptive parent.

How did the "second parent" adoption come about?

The Indiana Court of Appeals, considering the appeal of a lesbian couple from the denial of the non-parent's petition for adoption, held:

"To deny the children of same-sex partners . . . the security of a legally recognized relationship with their second parent serves no legitimate state interest."

"By allowing same-sex adoptions . . . we are furthering the purposes of the (adoption) statute as was originally intended by allowing the children of (same-sex) unions the benefits and security of a legal relationship with their . . . second parent."