Access to Adoption Records

Who May Access Information
Citation: Ann. Code § 39-259A

Identifying information may be made available to:

• The adult adoptee
• The birth parents
• Adult birth siblings

Access to Nonidentifying Information
Citation: Ann. Code § 16-1506

A copy of all medical and genetic information compiled as part of the adoption investigation shall be made available to the adopting family by the department or other investigating children's adoption agency prior to entry of the final order of adoption.

Mutual Access to Identifying Information
Citation: Ann. Code § 39-259A

The State Registrar of Vital Statistics shall establish and maintain a confidential list of qualified adult adoptees, birth parents, or adult birth siblings who have consented to release of their identifying information. Any consent shall indicate the person's desired method of notification in the event that a match occurs, and shall also indicate whether the applicant desires release of identifying information if a match occurs after his or her death. The applicant may revise his or her consent with respect to change of address or method of notification.

A birth parent shall not be matched with an adult adoptee without the consent of the other birth parent unless:

• There is only one birth parent listed on the birth certificate.
• The other birth parent is deceased.
• The Department of Health and Welfare or by a licensed child-placing agency if unable to locate the birth parent after a search.

Access to Original Birth Certificate
Citation: Ann. Code § 39-258

The original birth certificate is available upon a court order or, in accordance with § 39-259A, when all parties have consented through the State adoption registry.

Where the Information Can Be Located

Idaho Voluntary Adoption Registry, Vital Records Section, Bureau of Vital Records and Health Statistics

Contact:

Voluntary Adoption Registry
Vital Records Section
Center for Vital Statistics and Health Policy
450 West State Street
PO Box 83720
Boise, ID 83720
(208) 334-5990
http://www.state.id.us/dhw/hwgd_www/famcomsv/fcs/96adopt4.html

Credits: Child Welfare Information Gateway (http://www.childwelfare.gov)