PA
Pennsylvania House Bill HB1817

Pennsylvania 2023-2024 Regular Session

Pennsylvania House Bill HB1817

Introduced
11/8/23  

Caption

In judicial change of name, further providing for court approval required for change of name and for change by order of court, providing for change by administrative application and further providing for effect on children.

Impact

The bill significantly impacts state laws regarding name changes by establishing a dual-track system for applicants. The Department of Health is granted the authority to approve name changes administratively, enhancing accessibility for individuals needing a name change, particularly those without complex histories. However, the measure retains court involvement in specific cases, such as those concerning minors or felons, ensuring judicial oversight where appropriate. By broadening the mechanisms for processing name changes, the bill seeks to reduce the backlog in the courts and facilitate a more efficient legal process.

Summary

House Bill 1817 aims to amend Title 54 of the Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes, specifically addressing the judicial process for changing a name. This legislation introduces provisions for name changes through both court approval and an administrative application process. Under this bill, individuals seeking a name change must either petition a court or apply to the Department of Health, depending on their circumstances, including those involving minors and individuals convicted of felonies. The intent behind this bill is to streamline the name change process while still ensuring that it adheres to public safety and legal standards.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HB 1817 appears largely positive, as it is designed to simplify and modernize procedures that many people find cumbersome. Supporters argue that the bill will empower individuals in managing their identities more easily during significant life changes. However, there are also concerns from some members of the community regarding the protections and safeguards in place, especially given that name changes for felons must still undergo a rigorous approval process. The dialogue reflects a balance between enhancing personal freedoms and maintaining necessary legal precautions.

Contention

Notable points of contention include the procedures around name changes for minors and individuals with felony convictions. Critics worry that the administrative procedures may not provide enough oversight in sensitive scenarios involving children. The bill includes specifics stating that the Department of Health must ensure that any applications involving minors receive adequate notification to nonapplying parents, preserving parental rights while still permitting administrative facilitation. Moreover, amendments to how name changes for felons are handled could lead to debates about the accessibility of justice and rehabilitation.

Latest PA HB1817 Activity

View All Events: PA 2023-2024 Regular Session HB1817

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

PA HB845

In judicial change of name, further providing for court approval required for change of name and for change by order of court, providing for change by administrative application and further providing for effect on children.

PA SB448

In judicial change of name, further providing for court approval required for change of name and for change by order of court, providing for change by administrative application and further providing for effect on children.

PA SB530

In judicial change of name, further providing for court approval required for change of name and for change by order of court, providing for change by administrative application and further providing for effect on children.

PA SB528

In judicial change of name, further providing for court approval required for change of name.

PA SB521

In judicial change of name, further providing for court approval required for change of name.

PA HB610

In judicial change of name, further providing for court approval required for change of name.

PA HB1315

In judicial change of name, further providing for court approval required for change of name.

PA SB574

In judicial change of name, further providing for court approval required for change of name and for change by order of court.

PA HB785

In voter registration, further providing for methods of voter registration, providing for electronic voter registration and further providing for preparation and distribution of applications and for approval of registration applications; in records, further providing for general register, for district registers and for reports; in changes in records, further providing for removal notices and for change of enrollment of political party; and, in penalties, further providing for altering registration.

PA HB1703

In voter registration, further providing for methods of voter registration, providing for electronic voter registration, for electronic submission of changes to registration and for time for electronic voter registration and further providing for preparation and distribution of applications and for approval of registration applications; in records, further providing for general register, for district registers and for reports; in changes in records, further providing for removal notices and for change of enrollment of political party; and, in penalties, further providing for altering registration.

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