Governor Pence Signs Adoption Records Bill

Statement

Governor Mike Pence issued the following statement after he signed into law Senate Enrolled Act 91, a bill that opens all adoption records that were finalized prior to January 1, 1994. These records will open beginning on July 1, 2018 unless the birth parent files a contact preference form with the Indiana State Department of Health.

"SEA 91 expands opportunities for adopted Hoosiers seeking more information on their health and heritage even while ensuring that birthparents who choose to maintain their privacy are protected, and I am pleased to sign it into law," said Governor Pence. "I want Indiana to be known as the most pro-adoption state in America and SEA 91 will give greater clarity and compassion to our adoption laws."

SEA 91 will open all adoption records finalized before 1994 unless a birth parent requests with the Indiana State Department of Health that the records remain sealed. The legislation goes into effect on July 1, 2018, thereby providing time to inform birth mothers about these changes.

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