(a) If either natural parent, in a notarized statement made prior to the placement for adoption, specifies the religion in which he or she desires the child to be raised, the Department or licensed agency shall make placement in accordance with such statement. If the natural parents declare indifference to the religion in which the child should be reared, or if their religion is not known, or if there is none, then the Department or licensed agency shall make placement without regard to religion.

(b) If the proposed adoptive parent is a stepparent or blood relative, there shall be no restriction regarding the religious affiliation.

(c) Whenever the provisions as set forth in subsection (a) of this section appear to create a hardship for the child to be adopted in obtaining a suitable and prompt placement, the Family Court, in its discretion, may waive these requirements in the best interest of the child.

Code 1935, § ?3551E; 48 Del. Laws, c. 134, § ?3; 13 Del. C. 1953, § ?911; 56 Del. Laws, c. 323; 57 Del. Laws, c. 402, § ?2; 62 Del. Laws, c. 402, § ?1; 68 Del. Laws, c. 259, § ?1; 70 Del. Laws, c. 186, § ?1;