An Act relative to parent names on birth certificates
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Progress
Where this bill stands in the legislative process.
- Introduced
- Passed House
- Passed Senate
- To Governor
- Became Law
Overview
This bill seeks to amend Massachusetts law regarding the names listed on birth certificates. Currently, birth certificates typically only list the mother’s name. This legislation would allow for the inclusion of both parents’ names on birth certificates, regardless of their marital status or the circumstances of the birth. It aims to provide a more accurate and complete record of a child’s family.
Key provisions
- Allows both parents’ names to be listed on birth certificates.
- Applies regardless of the parents’ marital status.
- Aims to reflect the reality of diverse family structures.
- Does not require a legal order or court proceedings to update birth certificates.
Who is affected
- Parents of newborns in Massachusetts
- Children born in Massachusetts
- State vital records office
- Healthcare providers
- Legal professionals
Notable changes
- Changes the standard practice for listing parent names on birth certificates.
- Addresses potential inequities in record-keeping for families with unmarried parents.
Bill text
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Sponsors
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3 on record
Primary sponsor
Cosponsors
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