HB3111 Summary

• Removes blanket ban on name changes for persons convicted of felonies, replacing it with restrictions only on those required to register under sex offender, violent offender, or arsonist registration acts while actively registered.

• Allows registered offenders to petition for name changes if they can verify the request is due to marriage, transgender status, religious belief, or trafficking victim status.

• Requires petition forms to include a warning that persons required to register who seek name changes without qualifying exceptions commit a felony offense.

• Mandates circuit court clerks notify the State's Attorney and Department of State Police when petitions involve individuals with felony/misdemeanor convictions or pending charges; allows State's Attorney to object within 30 days for specific crimes or pending charges.

• Permits courts to waive publication requirements and designate proceedings confidential upon finding good cause, including evidence that publication would risk physical harm, discrimination, or reveal stalking/assault history.