Governor Signs Bills to Help Foreign-Born Adoptees and Streamline Legal System
City Bar-Backed Bills Become Law
Governor Hochul has signed into law two bills supported by the City Bar:
Expanding Access to Birth Certificates for Foreign-Born Adoptees
Supported by the Council on Children, A.1944/S.3765 will allow all foreign-born adoptees—regardless of age—to obtain a New York State birth certificate. Previously, adult adoptees were barred from receiving this critical document, leaving many reliant on foreign records that were often inaccurate or unavailable. This change ensures adoptees have access to essential identity documentation, helping them fully participate in everyday life. “We are thrilled that the Legislature and Governor Hochul continue to pass legislation and prioritize policies that protect adoptees,” said Cathy A. Cramer, Chair of the Council on Children in Assembly Member Paulin’s press release announcing the bill’s enactment. “With the enactment of this law, New York is taking active steps to ensure that all foreign-born adoptees, regardless of age, are entitled to a New York Birth Certificate, which will in turn, offer them more security and protection over the span of their lifetime.” The bill was signed with an approval memo that requested a technical chapter amendment which would clarify language that could be read to inadvertently exclude 18 year olds.
Improving Efficiency in the Legal System
With support from the Trusts, Estates and Surrogate’s Courts Committee and the State Courts of Superior Jurisdiction Committee, A.8408/S.8175 modernizes service of process rules under the Surrogate’s Court Procedure Act. The amendments permit service by certified mail without return receipt and allow electronic service, streamlining procedures, reducing costs, and improving reliability—all while maintaining due process protections. This bill takes effect immediately.
For a full listing of City Bar committee legislative successes in 2025, click here. We thank the committees for their work in advancing these reforms!