Eliminates fee for filing certified copy of name change order.
Impact
The proposed legislation is expected to amend Section 11 of P.L.1987, c.435, reducing barriers for residents undergoing name changes. The removal of the filing fee may encourage more individuals to legally change their names, which could have implications for personal identification on various legal and official documents. This initiative aligns with broader civil rights objectives, promoting equitable access to legal processes for all citizens of New Jersey, ensuring that financial burdens do not impede individuals' rights to their identity.
Summary
Senate Bill S1958, introduced in the New Jersey 221st Legislature, aims to eliminate the fee for filing a certified copy of a name change order. Currently, New Jersey law imposes a $50 fee on residents seeking to change their name, a process often undertaken for reasons such as marriage or divorce. By removing this fee, the bill seeks to make the name change process more accessible to individuals, potentially impacting many residents each year who wish to have their identities formally recognized without incurring additional costs.
Contention
While the bill appears likely to garner support for its consumer-friendly nature, potential points of contention may arise regarding the broader implications of waiving such fees. Critics might question the financial impact of lost revenue on state services, moderation of statutory fees, and how this change fits into the larger framework of legal documentation and government processes. Discussions may also focus on how eliminating fees aligns with other state initiatives intended to enhance access to essential services.
Changes deadline for filing of acceptance by successful write-in candidate for primary election to on or before the seventh day following certification of election results.