Governor Signs HB 301 into Law
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
April 13, 2026
Governor Signs HB 301 into Law, Marking Major Step Forward for Adoptee Rights in Virginia
Richmond, VA — Today, the Governor of Virginia, Abigail Spanberger, officially signed House Bill 301 (HB 301) into law, marking a significant milestone in advancing the rights and recognition of adoptees across the Commonwealth. This makes Virginia the 17th state in the country to allow adoptees unrestricted access to their own birth certificates.
HB 301 represents a meaningful step toward greater transparency, dignity, and access for individuals impacted by adoption. The legislation reflects years of advocacy, collaboration, and thoughtful policy-making aimed at addressing long-standing barriers faced by adoptees seeking information about their origins.
This achievement would not have been possible without the leadership and dedication of the bill’s patrons – Chief Patron Katrina Callsen along with co-patrons, Wendell Walker, Debra Gardner, Karen Keys-Gamarra, and Phil Hernandez – whose commitment to fairness and equity helped guide HB 301 through the legislative process. Their efforts ensured that the voices of adoptees and their families were heard and respected at every stage.
The Virginia Adoptee Rights Alliance also extends our sincere gratitude to the many supporters of adoptee rights, and with a special thanks to our partner organizations who assisted us through this process – Adoptees’ Liberty Movement Association (ALMA), Adoptee Rights Law Center, Capital Coalition for Adoptee Rights, Georgia Alliance for Adoptee Rights, and Louisiana Coalition for Adoptee Rights. Their tireless work, personal stories, and steadfast commitment to reform were instrumental in raising awareness and building momentum for this important legislation. Through education, outreach, and advocacy, they helped bring this issue to the forefront and inspired meaningful change.
The signing of HB 301 underscores Virginia’s commitment to supporting adoptees and promoting policies rooted in compassion, transparency, and truth. As this law takes effect on July 1, 2026, it ensures equality for Virginia-born adoptees throughout the state and around the world.
For more information about HB 301 and its impact, please contact the Virginia Alliance for Adoptee Rights at [email protected].