Does MEPA-IEP apply to private agencies and independent adoptions?
MEPA-IEP applies to all agencies and entities receiving federal assistance directly or as a subrecipient from another entity. Agencies or entities that do not receive federal assistance are not covered by MEPA-IEP unless a federally assisted agency is also involved in their placement decisions. However, these entities may be covered by other statutes or policies prohibiting discrimination. • Can agencies conduct targeted recruitment? MEPA-IEP requires diligent recruitment of potential foster and adoptive families that reflect the ethnic and racial diversity of the children who need homes. Therefore, states must develop strategies that reach the communities of these families. At the same time, states and other entities must ensure that they do not deny anyone the opportunity to adopt or foster a child on the basis of race, color or national origin. The 1995 federal Guidance discussed targeted recruitment efforts as part of a comprehensive strategy aimed at reaching all segments of the c
