​As of January 1, 2023, Senate Bill (SB) 786 (Hertzberg, Chapter 704, Statutes of 2022) allows county recorders, upon request, to issue a certified copy of a birth, death, or marriage record issued pursuant to Section 103525 by means of verifiable credential using blockchain technology.

The California Department of Public Health (CDPH) has received questions regarding its role in implementing SB 786. However, this bill does not give CDPH statutory authority regarding utilization of blockchain technology for issuance of certified copies of vital records. Therefore, CDPH is currently only engaging with counties to understand the landscape of county recorders utilizing blockchain technology to issue certified copies of vital records. CDPH has determined that at least 13 counties are pursuing implementing blockchain technology to issue certified copies this calendar year (2023). The attached Frequently Asked Questions document provides some answers to common questions related to SB 786.

Furthermore, as part of the State Registrar’s obligation and authority to ensure uniform compliance with vital records laws, CDPH recommends counties consider the items outlined in the attached Blockchain Discussion PowerPoint presentation when developing implementation plans. If a county is considering implementation of blockchain technology for the issuance of certified copies of vital records, CDPH recommends sharing this All County Letter and supporting documents with their County Counsel, Local Heatlh Officer, County Information Technology staff, and District Attorney (if applicable). 

For any questions regarding this matter, please contact CDPH at CHSI@cdph.ca.gov. 

Sincerely,​

Original signed by:
​

Dana E. Moore, MPH, CPH

State Registrar/Deputy Director

Center for Health Statistics and Informatics