Pennsylvania 2025-2026 Regular Session

Pennsylvania House Bill HB1315

Introduced
4/28/25  

Caption

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

Impact

If enacted, HB 1315 will significantly influence how name change petitions are processed in Pennsylvania. Specifically, it mandates that petitions will only be accessible upon court order, maintaining a level of confidentiality designed to protect petitioners' privacy. This amendment is particularly relevant for individuals seeking name changes related to gender identity, where privacy and discretion are paramount for many seeking such changes. By sealing records in these sensitive cases, the bill aims to balance the need for legal processes with the rights and safety of individuals undergoing such transitions.

Summary

House Bill 1315 is a legislative proposal aimed at amending Title 54 of the Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes concerning the process of judicial name changes. The bill seeks to provide more structured guidelines for individuals wishing to change their names, requiring them to file a petition in the court of common pleas. This legal framework not only ensures documentation of the name change but also includes stipulations regarding public access to court records related to these proceedings, especially focusing on cases involving gender identity changes.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HB 1315 appears to be generally positive among advocacy groups that support greater privacy and protection for individuals seeking to change their names, particularly in the context of gender identity. Proponents of the bill argue that it addresses significant concerns regarding the safety and dignity of petitioners. However, there are potential concerns among those who believe that increased confidentiality may lead to complications in legal recognition and transparency of name changes. Discussions on this topic reflect a broader societal debate about individual rights and public accessibility to legal processes.

Contention

Despite its generally favorable view, HB 1315 does not come without contention. Critics might argue that while sealing records enhances privacy, it could also complicate situations where the validity of a name change is questioned, potentially obscuring legal identities. Furthermore, opposition might arise from parties who feel that such privacy provisions could hinder legal checks and balances. Overall, the proposed amendments to the name change process illustrate the ongoing balancing act between protecting individual identities and maintaining legal transparency.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

PA HB610

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

PA SB528

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

PA HB1817

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 SB574

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

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.

PA HB1648

Providing for right-to-know; making repeals; and making editorial changes.

PA HB1470

In limitation of time, further providing for six months limitation; in matters affecting government units, further providing for exceptions to sovereign immunity, for limitations on damages and for exceptions to governmental immunity and providing for claims for compensation for wrongful conviction; in general administration, providing for services after wrongful conviction; and, in Pennsylvania Board of Probation and Parole, further providing for powers and duties of department.

PA SB179

In adoption, further providing for definitions; in proceedings prior to petition to adopt, further providing for hearing, for grounds for involuntary termination and for petition for involuntary termination and providing for notice if identity or whereabouts of birth parent or putative father unknown; and, in petition for adoption, further providing for consents necessary to adoption and repealing provisions relating to consents not naming adopting parents.

PA SB526

Providing for duties of commission relating to name changes by certain individuals.

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