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House Co-Sponsorship Memoranda
House of Representatives
Session of 2023 - 2024
Regular Session
MEMORANDUM
| Posted: | December 8, 2022 03:38 PM |
|---|---|
| From: | Representative Benjamin V. Sanchez and Rep. Melissa L. Shusterman |
| To: | All House members |
| Subject: | Transgender Community Name Change Assistance Grants |
Transgender individuals face unique challenges when going through the process of changing their name, and without proper documentation these individuals face difficulties traveling, registering for school, and accessing many services. Currently, acquiring gender and identity affirming documentation in Pennsylvania is difficult and costly. The process requires an applicant to petition the court and publish notice in two newspapers. In addition, organizations and local governments that provide services to help the transgender community are often underfunded and understaffed. To address this problem, I am introducing a bill to establish a grant program to provide money for organizations, counties, and local governments that assist transgender individuals with changing their name. The need within Pennsylvania’s transgender community to address systemic barriers is unmet and growing. With this grant program, we can ensure that some of our most vulnerable residents have the support they need. 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. Please co-sponsor this important legislation and help to support transgender individuals throughout our state. |
Introduced as HB638