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Bill > SB437
PA SB437
PA SB437Providing for duties of commission relating to name changes by certain individuals.
summary
Introduced
03/17/2025
03/17/2025
In Committee
03/17/2025
03/17/2025
Crossed Over
Passed
Dead
Introduced Session
2025-2026 Regular Session
Bill Summary
Amending the act of October 27, 1955 (P.L.744, No.222), entitled "An act prohibiting certain practices of discrimination because of race, color, religious creed, ancestry, age or national origin by employers, employment agencies, labor organizations and others as herein defined; creating the Pennsylvania Human Relations Commission in the Governor's Office; defining its functions, powers and duties; providing for procedure and enforcement; providing for formulation of an educational program to prevent prejudice; providing for judicial review and enforcement and imposing penalties," providing for duties of commission relating to name changes by certain individuals.
AI Summary
This bill amends the Pennsylvania Human Relations Act to establish new responsibilities for the Pennsylvania Human Relations Commission regarding name changes, specifically focusing on supporting individuals seeking legal name changes. The commission must create a comprehensive online resource within 60 days that provides detailed guidance about the name change process, including how to file petitions, legal requirements, court procedures, and potential challenges. The online resource must include information about filing in courts of common pleas, publication requirements, interaction with the Pennsylvania State Police, and contact points for local courts. Notably, the bill requires the commission to provide a specialized point of contact who can assist individuals facing biases related to gender or sex stereotypes during the name change process. Additionally, the commission must develop training seminars for judges, attorneys, and court personnel to help them better understand and support individuals, particularly those in the LGBTQIA+ community, navigating name changes. The bill aims to make the name change process more accessible, transparent, and supportive, especially for individuals who may face additional challenges due to gender identity or sexual orientation.
Committee Categories
Justice
Sponsors (10)
Lindsey Williams (D)*,
Amanda Cappelletti (D),
Maria Collett (D),
Wayne Fontana (D),
Art Haywood (D),
Tim Kearney (D),
Katie Muth (D),
Steve Santarsiero (D),
Nikil Saval (D),
Sharif Street (D),
Last Action
Referred to Judiciary (on 03/17/2025)
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