MYRTLE BEACH, SC (WBTW)- A new South Carolina law will allow children adopted in the state to learn about their birth parents. It will allow children to see their sealed birth certificate after they turn 18.
South Carolina was one of 22 states that sealed original birth certificates, but that will change starting July of 2019.
Jeanette Stachowika became a foster parent for Kason after he was born in March 2015.
“He was just a fun loving kid that took our hearts from the day that we got him,” said Stachowika.
Kason’s parents signed their rights over to Jeanette and she wanted to make sure Kason knew his birth parents.
“I can’t be selfish as his mother and say no. I have to be giving, and say well you’re going to need this in the future so ill give it to you know and we’ll just all form a bond,” said Stachowika.
While Kason has a relationship with his biological family, a lot of children don’t and it can be tough to find them, but the new law makes it easier. It allows adopted children that are 18 years old see their original birth certificate, medical history, and contact information for their birth parents if they consent.
“I know friends that have been adopted that have searched for years and have never found out who their biological parents were and that’s tough for them. They just want a little piece of medical history that they may not be able to find anywhere else,” said Stachowika.
Jeanette has fostered three children and said it’s essential for kids to know where they came from especially when it comes to their medical records, and she believes most foster parents would agree.
“Wanting to know a little bit more about their family and where they came from and just getting to know them is something I feel is important. Be proactive instead of reactive to medical conditions would be a huge asset to them,” said Stachowika.
The new law will only apply to adoptions finalized after July1st, 2019.
According to DSS, more than 500 children are up for adoption in South Carolina.
