IL HB4444

Amends the Code of Civil Procedure Section 21-103 to eliminate the requirement for 3 consecutive weeks of newspaper publication when a person applies to change their name to conform with their gender identity.

Maintains existing publication requirement exemptions for minors (with parental notice) and individuals resuming a former or maiden name after marriage dissolution.

Preserves court authority to waive publication requirements upon motion for individuals at risk of physical harm or discrimination, those under domestic violence or protection orders, and witnesses in criminal proceedings.

Requires courts to impound cases where publication requirements have been waived to protect privacy and safety.

Caps publication rates at the lowest classified rate paid by commercial users and requires newspapers to apply all standard cash discounts and multiple insertion discounts.