If you or anyone you know has ever gone through the process of legally changing their name, you’re probably aware that it can be a lengthy and time-consuming pain in the backside. Some situations are easier than others, of course. In most states, if you get married and wish to take your spouse’s surname, bring your marriage license down to the county clerk’s office and they’ll give you the appropriate forms to fill out. For everyone else, the process is more involved and will require steps such as publishing an announcement of the change in multiple newspapers. The record of the change remains available to both the public and law enforcement. But a new pair of bills in Washington state and California are trying to change that, but not for everyone. If you are changing your name for reasons of “gender expression or identity,” you would be able to have those records sealed. (Associated Press)Read More