Bill > H1942

This bill, relative to protecting personal information in the issuance of copies of birth certificates, amends Chapter 43 of the General Laws to restrict who can access and obtain certified copies of birth records. Specifically, it clarifies that examination of birth records and certified copies will only be permitted for individuals seeking their own birth record, their attorney, parent, guardian, or conservator, or individuals whose official duties warrant access, as determined by the town clerk or the commissioner of public health, or upon a proper judicial order. The bill also adds a new requirement that anyone requesting a copy of a birth record must present current and valid photo identification, and the city or town clerk will keep a record of this identification. These restrictions apply to records of births, including those born out of wedlock or abnormal sex births, fetal deaths, and marriage records where a physician's certificate has been filed, but do not apply to records filed before January 1, 1841.