Adoptee Rights Law Center

Legal representation and advocacy for adult adopted people

Action Alert

Legislation: Where We Stand, What You Can Do

First published on • Last updated on

As we move into a critical period in many state legislative sessions—and as the U.S. Congress essentially moves forward with a new session—here’s where we stand and what all of us can do today.

Action Alert: Contact South Carolina Senators

First published on • Last updated on

South Carolina’s expensive and discriminatory H.3775 is headed for a Senate vote. Contact senators and ask them to vote No.

What’s an Original Birth Certificate?

Most adopted persons know what an original birth certificate (OBC) is. Many non-adopted people do not. An original birth certificate is the initial birth certificate created shortly after a person's birth. For most people, it is their only birth certificate.

For persons born and adopted in the United States, a new or "amended" birth certificate replaces the OBC once the adoption is final. In addition to replacing the original, the names of the birth parents are also replaced with the names of the adoptive parents. Some states may also alter or omit additional information on a new certificate, including the adoptee's specific place of birth.

Depending on state law, an original birth certificate is sealed and remains unavailable to the adopted person, even when they become an adult. If you are not adopted, your original birth certificate is your only birth certificate---and it is always available to you upon request.