Chicago, IL: In a significant move to protect individual privacy, Illinois has enacted House Bill 5164, sponsored by State Senator Ram Villivalam. Signed into law by Governor J.B. Pritzker on February 7, 2025, the legislation removes the mandate to publish name changes in local newspapers and reduces the state's residency requirement for applicants from six months to three months. The law will take effect on March 1, 2025.
Key Facts:
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Legislation Signed: February 7, 2025
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Effective Date: March 1, 2025
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Residency Requirement Reduction: From six months to three months
Previously, Illinois residents seeking a legal name change were required to publish their intentions in a local newspaper, a practice that raised concerns over personal safety and privacy. The new law eliminates this requirement, allowing individuals to maintain confidentiality during the name change process.
Senator Villivalam emphasized the importance of this legislative change, stating, "Our residents deserve to be able to change their name in private and without worry for their well-being or safety."
The law also introduces a procedure enabling individuals to impound their court files related to name changes. To do so, applicants must submit a sworn statement expressing their belief that public disclosure of their file could negatively impact their health or safety.
State Representative Kevin Olickal, the bill's House sponsor, highlighted the legislation's role in protecting vulnerable communities: "This legislation helps prevent the misuse of state records for political purposes, protecting vulnerable communities from harm and upholding our commitment to keeping all Illinoisans safe."
Advocacy groups have lauded the new law for its potential to safeguard marginalized individuals. Michael Ziri, director of public policy at Equality Illinois, expressed gratitude to state leaders and acknowledged the efforts of the Transformative Justice Law Project in supporting transgender and gender-expansive individuals.
By removing the publication requirement and reducing the residency period, Illinois aims to make the name change process more accessible and secure for its residents, reflecting a commitment to personal privacy and safety.
Do You Know? Before this legislation, Illinois was among several states that mandated the publication of name changes in local newspapers, a practice rooted in anti-fraud measures but increasingly criticized for compromising individual privacy.
Key Terms:
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Impound: To place (something) in custody or under legal restraint; in this context, to keep court records confidential.
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Residency Requirement: The mandated period an individual must live in a particular jurisdiction before being eligible for certain legal processes.