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HB 301

Adult adoptees; access to vital records.

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Katrina Callsen and 4 co-sponsors

Virginia HB 301 removes restrictions on adoptees' access to original birth certificates and vital records, aligning with 23+ states that have already adopted open records policies.

Acts of Assembly Chapter text (CHAP0587)
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Bill Summary · HB 301

Legislative bill overview

HB 301 grants adult adoptees in Virginia access to their original birth certificates and vital records without restriction. The bill has already passed the House with strong bipartisan support (84-10) and is currently in the Senate Committee on Education and Health for consideration.

Why is this important

Access to birth records directly affects adoptees' ability to understand their medical history, cultural heritage, and identity. Currently, Virginia law restricts this access, creating barriers that adoptees in other states with open records laws do not face. This policy change aligns Virginia with 23+ states that have already enacted similar measures.

Potential points of contention

  • Privacy concerns for birth parents: Some oppose unrestricted access citing potential unwanted contact with birth mothers who may not wish to be identified, though most states with open records have not seen widespread problems
  • Implementation costs: Court systems and vital records offices require resources to process increased requests and establish verification procedures
  • Distinction between adoptees and other citizens: Critics may question why adoptees receive different access to public records than others seeking genealogical information, while proponents argue adoptees have unique circumstances warranting special consideration

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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