This bill amends sections 14-15-16 and 23-02.1-18 of the North Dakota Century Code, focusing on the confidentiality and disclosure of information in adoption proceedings and access to birth records. Key changes include the clarification of the term "genetic parent," which now encompasses both presumed and alleged fathers under specific conditions. The bill modifies procedures for adoption hearings to ensure they are conducted in closed court with limited attendance and allows for written testimony from parents who cannot attend. It establishes a framework for disclosing identifying and nonidentifying information to adopted individuals and genetic parents while maintaining confidentiality, and outlines the responsibilities of child-placing agencies in facilitating information requests.

Additionally, the bill addresses the establishment of new birth records for individuals adopted in North Dakota, particularly those born abroad. It specifies that a new birth record may be created upon request from the court, adoptive parents, or the adopted individual, contingent upon evidence proving legitimation or paternity. The bill allows adopted individuals aged eighteen or older to request copies of their original birth records and any evidence of adoption previously filed, while ensuring these records are not subject to inspection except under specific circumstances, such as a court order. The amendments streamline legal language by replacing terms like "person" with "individual" and mandate that all copies of the original birth record must be sealed or forwarded to the state registrar when a new birth record is established.

Statutes affected:
INTRODUCED: 14-15-16, 23-02.1-18