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HD 2299

An Act prohibiting name-changing for registered sex offenders

194th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by Alyson Sullivan-Almeida

Massachusetts bill would permanently ban registered sex offenders from legally changing their names, citing public safety while potentially conflicting with reintegration and constitutional protections.

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Bill Summary · HD 2299

Legislative bill overview

HD 2299 would prohibit registered sex offenders in Massachusetts from legally changing their names. Currently, sex offenders can petition the court to change their names like any other citizen, subject to standard legal procedures. This bill would create a categorical ban on such petitions for anyone on the sex offender registry.

Why is this important

Name changes by sex offenders raise competing public safety and individual rights concerns. Proponents argue the restriction helps law enforcement track offenders and protects communities from deception. However, this directly affects individuals' ability to rebuild lives post-conviction and may create practical barriers to employment, housing, and reintegration—which criminologists note can increase recidivism risk.

Potential points of contention

  • Constitutional challenges: Courts in other states have struck down similar blanket bans as violating due process rights, since name-change restrictions may be challenged as excessive punishment or denial of fundamental liberty interests
  • Reintegration vs. public safety trade-off: Research suggests successful reintegration reduces recidivism, but name-change bans may hinder employment and housing access, potentially counteracting public safety goals
  • Scope ambiguity: The bill doesn't clarify whether restrictions apply to all registry tiers (minor offenses vs. serious crimes) or if there are exceptions for cases where offenders have completed sentences and supervision periods

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

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