SB 437 Pennsylvania Senate · 2025-2026 Regular Session

An Act amending the act of October 27, 1955 (P.L.744, No.222), known as the Pennsylvania Human Relations Act, providing for duties of commission relating to name changes by certain individuals.

SB 437 amends Pennsylvania's Human Relations Act to require the Pennsylvania Human Relations Commission to create a single online portal within 60 days. The portal must provide clear resources for individuals seeking legal name changes, including step-by-step guidance on court petitions, explanations of legal requirements (like court publication rules), and contact points for county courts. It specifically includes specialized support for individuals facing gender-based biases during the name change process, such as connecting them with experts on gender identity challenges. The bill also mandates training for judges and court staff on supporting transgender and gender-diverse individuals navigating name change procedures. This directly affects anyone in Pennsylvania seeking to legally change their name, particularly those encountering barriers related to gender identity.
Bill status in committee 1 of 4 stages cleared
Introduction
Mar 2025
Committee Review
Floor Vote
Governor
Introduced Mar 17, 2025 Last action Mar 17, 2025
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Total actions
1
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0
Committee
1
Mar 17, 2025
Committee
Referred to Judiciary
upper
1 primary · 9 co-sponsors

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