Why should same sex couples reside in Rhode Island for the birth of their child?
Unlike some states, Rhode Island law allows gay and lesbian couples to adopt children. Accordingly, the Rhode Island Family Court routinely grants gay and lesbian adoptions (adoptions for same sex couples) and has been doing so for over fifteen years. After the adoption, the Rhode Island Department of Health, Division of Vital Statistics will amend a locally born child’s birth certificate to name both same sex partners as parents. Despite a valid Decree of Adoption, not all states will issue such a birth certificate.
