Currently, acquiring identity affirming documentation in Pennsylvania is difficult and costly. Organizations and local governments that provide Name Change services to help members of their community are often underfunded and understaffed. At the same time, without proper documentation individuals face difficulties traveling, registering for school, and accessing many services.
 
To address this problem, our bill would establish a grant program to provide money for organizations, counties, and local governments that assist individuals with changing their name to better fit with and affirm their identity.  By providing this money to local governments and organizations, we can ensure it is spent by those who know the issues and needs of their community best.
 
The need within Pennsylvania to address systemic barriers is unmet and growing. With this grant program, we can ensure that some of our most vulnerable residents, including domestic violence victims and members of the LGBTQ+ community, have the support they need and deserve. Please join us in co-sponsoring this important legislation to help to support these individuals throughout our state.