Authorizing access to certifications of birth and death to additional family members.

HB 1157 expands who can legally obtain certified birth and death certificates in Washington State. It adds step-relatives (stepparents, stepchildren) and great-relatives (great-grandparents, great-grandchildren) to the list of eligible family members who can request these records. Registrars must now issue certified copies to these expanded groups when applicants provide required identity documentation and proof of eligibility. The bill also requires stillbirth certificates to clearly state they are not proof of live birth and includes security freeze information for birth records. It takes effect July 27, 2025.