Bill > SB528

This bill amends Title 54 (Names) of the Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes to further provide for court approval required for a change of name. The key provisions are: (1) allowing a petitioner's spouse to join as a party petitioner; (2) authorizing the court to waive the notice requirement for name changes that could jeopardize the safety of the individual or their child/ward, or to conform to the petitioner's gender identity, and seal the court records in such cases; and (3) requiring the petitioner to present certain documentation at the hearing, such as proof of publication and an official search for judgments or decrees against the petitioner. The bill applies to petitions filed after the effective date, which is 60 days after enactment.