Open Records

There are several "open records" states, i.e., states that provide original birth information to adult adoptees on demand. As of June 2004, these states are:

• Alabama
• Alaska
• Kansas
• Oregon

Beginning in January 2005, New Hampshire will join the list.

Several other states offer limited or restricted access to adult adoptees, and some allow birth parents, siblings of adult adopted persons, and other relatives limited or restricted access to identifying information. As you start your search, one of the first steps should be to check the laws of the state where the adoption was finalized to find out the status of open records access, and where to apply for information.