MA H1973

Amends Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 210, Section 13 to allow courts to seal name change records when an open record would jeopardize the petitioner's safety

Courts must consider the "totality of the circumstances" when evaluating safety concerns, including risk of violence or discrimination based on gender non-conformity, transgender status, or domestic violence survivor status

Sealed records include the petition, all pleadings, papers, documents, docket entries, and record books, which must be segregated into a separate permanent docket book and index

Courts cannot deny a sealing request solely because the petitioner lacks specific instances or a personal history of threats to their safety

Filed January 15, 2025 by Representatives Sabadosa (1st Hampshire) and Lewis (7th Middlesex), referred to the Judiciary Committee