The bill S. 485, introduced by Senator Cromer, seeks to amend Section 44-63-140 of the South Carolina Code of Laws regarding birth certificates for adopted individuals. The proposed amendment allows individuals who are seventy years of age or older, born in South Carolina and whose original birth certificates have been sealed due to adoption, to obtain copies of their original birth certificates and any related adoption records. This provision is intended to provide access to important personal documents for older adopted individuals.

The new legal language added to the existing law specifies that these individuals can request their original birth certificate and adoption evidence through a written request to the State Registrar, regardless of when the adoption was finalized. This change aims to enhance the rights of older adoptees in accessing their personal history and identity. The bill will take effect upon approval by the Governor.

Statutes affected:
03/25/2025: 44-63-140
Latest Version: 44-63-140