Bill > HB1315

This bill modifies Pennsylvania's judicial name change process by expanding protections and procedures for individuals seeking to change their names. Specifically, the bill adds two new scenarios where court-ordered notice can be waived and the court file can be sealed: first, when the petitioner can demonstrate that publishing notice would jeopardize their safety or the safety of their child or ward, and second, when the name change is requested to conform to the petitioner's gender identity. In both cases, the court records would remain confidential and could only be accessed by court order or at the petitioner's request. The bill maintains the existing requirement that name change petitions must include detailed personal information such as current and past residences, and the reason for the name change. The hearing process remains largely unchanged, with the court still having the ability to grant the name change after reviewing the petition and hearing any potential objections. The amendments will apply only to petitions filed after the bill's effective date, which is 60 days after enactment, and are designed to provide additional privacy and safety protections for individuals seeking legal name changes.

Justice

https://www.legis.state.pa.us/cfdocs/billinfo/bill_history.cfm?syear=2025&sind=0&body=H&type=B&bn=1315