Why Does Illinois Have Strict Name-Changing Laws?

By Meha Ahmad
Tania Tellez, a transgender woman living in Illinois, was denied a name change because she had been convicted of a felony drug charge and was two years short of the decade-long prohibition.
Tania Tellez, a transgender woman living in Illinois, was denied a name change because she had been convicted of a felony drug charge and was two years short of the decade-long prohibition. Andrew Gill/WBEZ
Tania Tellez, a transgender woman living in Illinois, was denied a name change because she had been convicted of a felony drug charge and was two years short of the decade-long prohibition.
Tania Tellez, a transgender woman living in Illinois, was denied a name change because she had been convicted of a felony drug charge and was two years short of the decade-long prohibition. Andrew Gill/WBEZ

Why Does Illinois Have Strict Name-Changing Laws?

By Meha Ahmad
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For newlyweds who want to change their names, the process can be an easy one. But getting your name changed for any other reason may mean jumping through some hoops — at least in Illinois. The state has one of the most restrictive name-changing laws with a complicated and expensive process.

Those getting hit hard by Illinois’ strict name-changing rules and requirements are members of the transgender community, who may seek a name change to match their gender identity and to avoid harassment and discrimination.

Now, a new bill in Springfield aims to lift some of those restrictions. WBEZ reporter Miles Bryan stops by the Morning Shift to break down what the bill would include, and why it’s difficult to get your name changed in Illinois.