News in 2001 from the Coalition for Open Adoption Records (C.O.A.R.)

Ontario

The Standing Committee on General Government will be hearing oral presentations on Bill 77 on Nov. 5 and Nov. 7. Use the link above to find out how to become a presenter or to submit a written statement.

Please write letters to your MPPs supporting Bill 77, particularly if they are one of the 5 MPPS listed in opposition to the bill.

Bill 77 passed second reading before the Legislature recessed and has moved on to the Standing Committe on General Government

Immediate Release

MPP MARILYN CHURLEY INTRODUCES ADOPTION BILL

TORONTO - Making it easier for adult adoptees and birth parents to access adoption records is the intent of a private member's bill being introduced in the Ontario legislature by Toronto-Danforth MPP Marilyn Churley today.

"Adoption access reform is long overdue. Here in Ontario, we lag behind other provinces such as Newfoundland and British Columbia. It is time that we introduce positive changes to a clearly antiquated process," said Churley.

The Adoption Disclosure Statute Law Amendment Act, 2001, would:

• Provide access to birth registration and adoption records for adult adoptees
• Provide access to birth registration and adoption records for birth parents
• Implement a No-Contact Notice
• Amend the Child and Family Services Act to provide, upon request, counseling for adopted persons, birth parents and others who may be affected by disclosure of adoption information

Churley introduced similar bills in 1999 and 2000. Both received overwhelming all-party support, but the government prorogued the house before either of them could become law.

"The adoption community has had its hopes raised and dashed on too many occasions in recent years and we must ensure this does not happen again. The Conservatives have run out of excuses for delaying this bill, " said Churley, noting that adoption disclosure reform has the support of the vast majority of MPPs and citizens. The bill is expected to be debated in the Legislature during the fall sitting.

Churley is a birth mother who reunited with her son in 1996.