New Minnesota Law to Impact Previous Adoptions

By SARAH VETTER

Minnesota’s adoption laws are changing, and the updates may affect many individuals in the adoption triad. When an individual is born and adopted in Minnesota, an original birth certificate is created, listing their birthparent(s) names and the name originally given to them. For individuals adopted before July 1, 1982, original birth records are currently confidential, and an adopted adult can only access this information if their birthparent signed an affidavit allowing their information to be released. For those adopted after July 1982, an adopted adult can request their birthparent’s name and last known address from the state of Minnesota, unless the birthparent has filed an objection. Based on legislation passed this year, these affidavits to allow or restrict identifying information will expire on June 30, 2024. After that date, all adopted adults who are at least 18 years old will be able to request and receive their original birth certificates from the State of Minnesota. Birth records show the names of birthparents, the adopted person’s name at birth, the place of birth, and additional details.

A Contact Preference form is available through the Minnesota Vital Records so that birth parents can specify if they would like to be contacted or not. When sent to adopted adults, the completed forms will be attached to the original birth records.

This change in Minnesota law could be a wonderful opportunity for some who have been hoping for a connection, and it may cause concern for birth parents who do not want to be identified. It is important that birth parents complete a Contact Preference Form indicating their desire to be contacted or not, and it is equally important that adopted adults honor the wishes indicated on the form they might receive.

Catholic Charities of Southern Minnesota aims to support adopted adults, birth parents, and adoptive parents through these changes and the potential outcomes. In addition to providing search and reunion services, our social workers can answer questions, assist in completing the preference forms, and help process the wide range of emotions that surface for those considering a reunion. We have assisted numerous adopted adults in acquiring non-identifying medical information, shared letters between birth parents and their adult children, and supported birth parents in deciding whether reconnecting is right. We welcome the opportunity to answer your questions about adoption, birth certificates, and your options for searching. You can reach a Catholic Charities post-adoption worker at 507-287-2047.

Sarah Vetter, LISW is Director of Child & Family Services Catholic Charities of Southern Minnesota