This bill requires an adopted individual to be considered a "child", "descendant", "heir", "issue", or any equivalent term in a written instrument executed before June 1, 1947 regardless of when the individual's adoption was finalized, unless the instrument states otherwise. The bill will be applied prospectively and may not be applied to affect vested property rights.
Senate Bill 176, which was passed by the General Assembly and signed by me, accomplishes the same purpose. Therefore, it is not necessary for me to sign House Bill 146.
Very truly yours,
Robert L. Ehrlich, Jr.
Governor
