ALBANY, N.Y. (WKBW) — A new state law will allow adoptees to obtain a copy of their original birth certificate when they turn 18.
Governor Andrew Cuomo made the announcement Monday. According to the governor's office, the new law would help adoptees receive information about their biological parents.
"Every person has the right to know where they come from, and this new law grants all New Yorkers the same unrestricted rights to their original birth records," Governor Cuomo said. "After years of being denied this basic human right, adoptees will finally be able to obtain critical information about their origins, family histories, and medical backgrounds."
The new law goes into place on Wednesday. Adoptees can apply for their birth certificate online or in person from the Department of Health.
