(Naperville) – Illinois will begin to authorize the release of birth certificates to an estimated 250,000 Illinois adopted persons over the age of 21, starting on November 15.

“This law allows adopted adults to obtain a non-certified copy of their original birth certificates and review important personal information," said State Rep. Sara Feigenholtz (D-Chicago), an adoptee, and the sponsor of the new law.

Since May 2010, when Governor Pat Quinn signed legislation, the Illinois Department of Public Health has released non-certified copies of original birth certificates to 842 adoptees born before January 1, 1946.

Those born after 1946 have had to wait an additional 18 months to give birth parents ample time to indicate their wishes regarding contact or request that their names be withheld during their lifetime.

This waiting period ends on November 15, 2011.

Birth parents can communicate their wishes 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.”

Adult adopted persons who want copy of their original birth certificate must complete a request form; mail it to the Illinois Department Public Health in Springfield; include a $15 check; supply a copy of a driver’s license or a government-issued identification.