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Bill

HB 845

An Act amending Title 54 (Names) of the Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes, 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.

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Missy Cerrato and 14 co-sponsors

Pennsylvania bill creates administrative alternative to court-ordered name changes while modifying judicial procedures and child name change impacts.

Referred to Judiciary
0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HB 845

Legislative bill overview

HB 845 amends Pennsylvania's name change law by creating an alternative administrative application process for name changes, in addition to the existing judicial (court-based) process. The bill modifies requirements for court approval and addresses how name changes affect children's legal status.

Why is this important

Name changes are significant legal matters affecting identity documentation, family relationships, and access to services. Streamlining the process through administrative options could reduce court backlogs and lower costs for applicants, but requires careful safeguards to prevent fraud or unauthorized changes, particularly regarding children's names.

Potential points of contention

  • Judicial vs. administrative oversight: Creating an administrative pathway raises questions about what verification standards apply and whether removing court involvement adequately protects against fraudulent claims or disputes
  • Children's name changes: The bill's provisions on how name changes affect children could conflict with custody arrangements, parental rights, or family law principles—particularly in contested situations
  • Access and equity: While an administrative process may reduce costs and barriers, it could create disparate outcomes depending on whether applicants use judicial or administrative routes, potentially affecting vulnerable populations differently

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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