Note: This version of section effective until 7-1-2018. See also following repeal of this section, effective 7-1-2018.

1. (b) Except as provided under subsections (d) and (e), the state registrar shall release the name and address of a pre-adoptive sibling to an adoptee who submits a written request under section 2 of this chapter if the following requirements are satisfied:

   1. (1) The pre-adoptive sibling of the adoptee has submitted a written request under section 2 of this chapter.
   2. (2) Each birth parent who is listed on the adoptee's original birth certificate has submitted a written consent for release of identifying information under IC 31-19-21 .

2. (c) Except as provided under subsections (d) and (e), the state registrar shall release the name and address of an adoptee to a pre-adoptive sibling of the adoptee who submits a written request under section 2 of this chapter if the following requirements are satisfied:

   1. (1) The adoptee has submitted a written request under section 2 of this chapter.
   2. (2) Each birth parent who is listed on the adoptee's original birth certificate has submitted a written consent for release of identifying information under IC 31-19-21 .

3. (d) The consent of a birth parent is not required for the release of information under this section if a person who submits a request under section 2 of this chapter provides:

   1. (1) a death certificate;
   2. (2) an obituary;
   3. (3) records from the STEVE system; or

   4. (4) any other form of evidence approved by the state department of health;

      indicating that a birth parent is deceased to the state registrar for each birth parent who is named on the adoptee's original birth certificate.

4. (e) The state registrar shall search the death certificates in the state registrar's possession and the STEVE system regarding a birth parent if an adoptee and a pre-adoptive sibling of the adoptee have submitted written requests to be in contact. If the state registrar determines that a birth parent is deceased, the consent of the birth parent who is deceased is not required for the release of the information under this section.
5. (f) If the state registrar is prohibited under this section from releasing the name and address of a pre-adoptive sibling or an adoptee, the state registrar shall provide information on requesting the release of adoption information under IC 31-19-24 to the adoptee or pre-adoptive sibling requesting the release of the information.

Sec. 4. (a) This section applies to adoptions that are filed before January 1, 1994.

As added by P.L.191-2011, SEC.55. Amended by P.L.190-2017, SEC.10.