In case you missed it, here’s great news for New York adoptees. Under a new law, adult adoptees will be able to obtain a certified copy of their original birth certificates.
Marking a victory for adoptee rights advocates, the law provides unrestricted access to original birth certificates. Unrestricted access means all New York adoptees can obtain their OBCs without exceptions. The children and grandchildren of deceased adoptees will be able to request OBCs as well.
Adopted adults sit tight as next steps are worked out. Gregory D. Luce, founder of the Adoptee Rights Law Center, provides an excellent overview of New York’s adoptee rights law, which will take effect on Jan. 15, 2020.
Hard as it is to believe, New York is only the 10th state to provide adoptees with unrestricted access to their birth certificates. Other states provide access with restrictions or no access.
Original Birth Certificates Reveal Hidden Truths
Original birth certificates can open a door to one’s hidden history. That’s the best way for me to describe the impact the OBC had on my life. I remember the thrill I felt as I held the birth certificate in my hand for the first time. There before me, I saw the name of my birth mother, her home address, age, place of birth, maiden name and even her signature.
The piece of paper revealed truths and dispelled myths I had about my birth mother. With the information on the OBC, I was able to find blood relatives, ancestors and family history.
Adoptees and adoptee rights advocates are excited about New York’s legislation, which came as a result of their hard work.
If you’re curious about the law, check out the Unsealed Initiative’s site for more articles and video links.
With any luck, other states will follow New York’s example.