The bill amends sections 14-15-16 and 23-02.1-18 of the North Dakota Century Code to enhance the confidentiality and disclosure processes in adoption proceedings and access to birth records. Key changes include the clarification of terms such as "genetic parent" and the requirement that adoption hearings be conducted in closed court, limiting attendance to essential personnel and involved parties. The bill outlines the procedures for disclosing both identifying and nonidentifying information to adopted individuals and genetic parents while ensuring that all adoption-related records remain confidential unless specific conditions are met.

Furthermore, the bill modifies the procedures for establishing new birth records following adoption, legitimation, and paternity determination, particularly for individuals adopted in North Dakota, including those born in foreign countries. It allows for the creation of a new birth record upon request from the court, adoptive parents, or the adopted individual, contingent upon the presentation of evidence of legitimation or paternity. Additionally, the bill permits adopted individuals aged eighteen or older to request copies of their original birth records, which will be sealed from inspection unless requested or ordered by a court. It also mandates that if no birth record exists, an original birth record must be filed with the state registrar, ensuring proper documentation and confidentiality throughout the adoption process.

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