H 5226/S 0121 is common-sense legislation that offers security to Rhode Island children and protects LGBTQ+ families by ensuring access to confirmatory adoption.

Victory! On June 19, 2023, Governor Governor Dan McKee signed “An Act Relating To Domestic Relations — Adoption Of Children” into law. Learn more.

Adoption is an important path to parentage in Rhode Island. The state’s current adoption statute was written for people seeking to establish parentage, not confirm parentage. H 5226/S 0121 will ensure access to confirmatory adoption for Rhode Islanders who are already parents of their children.

The legislation enables more children to be secured to their parents in all jurisdictions. It is a crucial next step to protecting LGBTQ+ families and children born through assisted reproduction in Rhode Island.

Particularly in light of the U.S. Supreme Court’s Dobbs ruling and escalating attacks on LGBTQ+ rights across the country, Rhode Island must do all it can to protect LGBTQ+ people and families.

For more information, read the fact sheet.