Wisconsin Assembly Bill AB390

Wisconsin 2025-2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 8/29/25
• Refer: 8/29/25
• Failed: 3/23/26

Caption

An Act to repeal 48.433 (3) (a); to renumber and amend 69.14 (3) (c) and 69.15 (6) (b); to consolidate, renumber and amend 48.433 (3) (intro.) and (b); to amend 48.433 (2), 48.433 (8) (a) and 69.22 (1) (b); to create 69.14 (3) (c) 3., 69.15 (6) (b) 4. and 69.21 (2) (bm) of the statutes; Relating to: access to an original impounded birth record. (FE)

Impact

If passed, AB390 would amend existing statutes concerning the accessibility of birth records in the state. The bill's implementation could require changes to how state agencies manage and disseminate birth records, potentially shifting towards a more open policy regarding personal identification documents. This may enhance access for individuals seeking their original birth records, thereby easing processes for adoptees and others with legitimate interest in their birth history. However, this could also raise concerns about privacy and the handling of sensitive personal information within public systems.

Summary

AB390, titled 'Access to an Original Impounded Birth Record', is a bill aimed at granting individuals the ability to access their original birth records that have been impounded. This bill centers on the idea that all individuals have a fundamental right to access their own birth information. The move to allow access is based on the notion that transparency in personal identification can improve individual agency and affirm personal history, especially for those who have been adopted or who wish to connect with their biological heritage.

Contention

Opposition to AB390 may arise from concerns over privacy and the security of personal information. Critics may argue that allowing unrestricted access to original birth records could lead to potential misuse of sensitive data, as biological parents might have privacy rights infringed upon. Moreover, there may be debates about how the bill balances the rights of individuals wishing to access their records with the ethical implications of exposing private birth information, particularly in cases involving adoption or surrogacy. Such tensions are likely to be significant in legislative discussions surrounding the bill.