Bill > HB5149

This bill amends sections of the Probate Code of 1939 related to adoption and the central adoption registry. The key provisions include: - Allowing former parents to file a contact preference form instead of a statement consenting to or denying the release of their identifying information. Courts and child placing agencies must notify parents of this option. - Requiring the central adoption registry to maintain filed contact preference forms and statements from adult former siblings. - Clarifying that the restrictions on releasing identifying information do not prevent individuals from obtaining an unredacted copy of their original birth certificate. - Expanding the information the Department of Health and Human Services must provide to the public about changes in access to adoption records and original birth certificates. - Requiring courts to provide information to the Department of Health and Human Services to help locate original birth certificates for adopted individuals. The bill aims to update the adoption record system and processes related to accessing adoption information and original birth certificates.