FLAGSTAFF, Ariz. (AP) – A state health policy that made getting a delayed birth certificate easier for American Indians now is law.

Gov. Doug Ducey signed a bill Monday sought by Arizona tribes to reduce the number of documents needed to obtain a birth certificate later in life.

The law makes permanent a policy that put emphasis on tribal records with key birth facts. One other supporting document with identical information is needed.

Previously, tribal citizens had to gather multiple documents. Many gave up trying.

Coconino County Supervisor Lena Fowler says tribal citizens born before 1970 should reapply if they’ve been denied in the past.

Rep. Albert Hale and Sen. Carlyle Begay had sponsored identical bills in the Legislature. Hale’s was held in the Senate Rules Committee, effectively killing it, while Begay’s bill advanced.