Va. (WSET) — Adult adoptees in Virginia can now obtain copies of their original birth certificates under a new state law that took effect Wednesday, ending restrictions that had been in place for nearly 50 years.

House Bill 301 establishes a process allowing adult adoptees to request their original birth certificates from the Virginia Department of Health’s Office of Vital Records. The law also allows birth parents to file a form indicating their preferred level of contact with adoptees.

The legislation marks a significant change in Virginia adoption law. Since 1976, most adoptees have been unable to access their original birth certificates, documents that are generally available to other adults in the commonwealth.

Del. Wendell Walker, R-Lynchburg, who served as chief co-patron of the measure after language from his earlier House Bill 664 was incorporated into the final legislation, said the new law concludes several years of legislative efforts.

“This is a day that many adoptees and families have waited years to see,” Walker said in a statement. “Today, Virginia restores a simple but meaningful right: the ability for adult adoptees to obtain their own original birth certificate.”

Walker thanked Del. Katrina Callsen, D-Charlottesville, for helping carry the legislation during the 2026 General Assembly session. He also recognized advocates, adoptees and families who supported the effort, including the Virginia Adoptee Rights Alliance, a coalition that advocated for expanded access to original birth records.

Walker also reflected on someone much closer to home for us at ABC13: the late anchor Mark Spain, whom he credited with bringing the issue to his attention in 2022.

EARLIER: Why Virginia law makes it hard for adoptees to get information about their birth parents

Mark’s compassion and determination helped launch this effort,” Walker said. “While it is bittersweet that he is not here to see this day, his legacy lives on in the lives that will be impacted by this law.

Adult adoptees seeking their original birth certificates can submit requests through the Virginia Department of Health’s Office of Vital Records by clicking this link.

“Today marks the beginning of a new chapter for thousands of Virginians. For many adult adoptees, this law provides an opportunity to better understand their own story, their family history, and where they came from. I’m grateful to everyone who helped make this day possible,” Walker concluded.