This bill mandates the Commissioner of Health to revise the State marriage license application form to allow applicants to specify changes to their middle name and surname resulting from marriage. The updated form will feature two parallel sections where applicants can choose from several options for their surname, including adopting the other spouse's surname, using a former surname, creating a combined surname, or using a hyphenated combination of surnames. Additionally, the form will clarify that changing one's surname is not mandatory and will provide guidance on contacting the local Social Security Administration Office to update records accordingly.
Furthermore, the bill requires the Commissioner to collaborate with other State departments and agencies to streamline the process of effectuating name changes based on the marriage license application. This includes ensuring that the application can be used to update records and issue new government identification cards without requiring further action from the applicants. The bill is set to take effect on the first day of the seventh month following its enactment, although the Commissioner may take preliminary administrative actions to facilitate its implementation.