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.

HB 845 creates a new administrative process for Pennsylvania residents to legally change their name, allowing applications to be submitted directly to the Department of Health (online or at driver's license centers) instead of requiring court petitions for most cases. It requires applicants to provide background information and a county-level criminal record check to confirm no outstanding judgments. The bill maintains court oversight for name changes involving minors when a parent or guardian does not consent, requiring additional documentation to demonstrate reasonable efforts to obtain consent. This change primarily affects individuals seeking name changes, streamlining the process for adults while preserving judicial review for minor-related cases.