Important Change in the Adoption Law in NJ

Office of Respect Life

Important Change in the Adoption Law in NJ - Birth parents must take action to preserve their privacy.

On May 27, 2014, a new law took effect allowing adoptees and certain relatives to request and obtain the names of their biological parents beginning January 1, 2017. Birth parents who wish to preserve their privacy must submit a REDACTION REQUEST FORM to the NJ Department of Health by December 31, 2016. The form can be downloaded at http://nj.gov/health/form/reg-36c.pdf. There is also a HELPLINE: 609-989-4809.

Prior to this law being passed, if an adopted child wanted medical information, it was readily available.

Please contact Mary Mazzarella, M.D., Respect Life Consultant (973-777-8818 x269) with any questions.