(Skokie, IL) – November 10, 2011. On November 15, Illinois will take a historic step to authorize the release of non-certified original birth certificates to an estimated 250,000 Illinois adult adopted persons.

 “This law allows adopted adults to obtain a non-certified copy of their original birth certificates and help them learn more about their birth families,” said State Rep. Sara Feigenholtz (D-Chicago), an adoptee, and the sponsor of the new law.

Since May of 2010, when Governor Pat Quinn signed the groundbreaking legislation, the state has released non-certified copies of original birth certificates to 842 adoptees–who are currently living in 41 U.S. states and six foreign countries–born before January 1, 1946.

Those born after 1946 have had to wait an additional 18 months theirs to give birth parents ample time to indicate their wishes regarding contact during their lifetime.

This waiting period ends on November 15, 2011.

Birth parents can transmit their intentions by registering the Illinois Adoption Registry and Medical Information Exchange operated by the Illinois Department of Public Health.

“The response of the birth parents, who have registered with the state, has been overwhelming and positive,” said Feigenholtz, who will be eligible to apply for her birth certificate on November 15.

“Nearly 95% of these birth parents have opted for some degree of transparency with their surrendered children.”

To request a birth certificate, mail a request form to the Illinois Department Public Health in Springfield; include both a $15 check or money order and a copy of a government-issued driver’s license or identification.