Bill > SB644

This bill modifies Pennsylvania's laws regarding birth records for adopted individuals by making two primary changes: First, it redefines a "noncertified copy of original birth record" from a summary document to a photocopy of the original birth record, with a notation that it is not a certified copy. Second, the bill simplifies the requirements for an adoptee to obtain their original birth record by removing previous stipulations about educational status, so that any adoptee who is at least 18 years old (or their descendants, if the adoptee is deceased) can apply to the Department of Health for a noncertified copy. Notably, the bill eliminates a detailed process that previously allowed birth parents to request redaction of their name from the birth record, which means birth parents will no longer have the ability to prevent their name from appearing on the document. The changes aim to provide more direct access to birth records for adopted individuals, removing previous barriers related to educational achievement and parental consent. The bill will take effect 60 days after its passage.

Health and Social Services

https://www.legis.state.pa.us/cfdocs/billinfo/bill_history.cfm?syear=2025&sind=0&body=S&type=B&bn=644