Committee hears bill to shorten adult name-change publication period from 4 to 2 weeks

Sen. Victor Rountree (District 3) told the Judiciary Committee LB739 would require adults who legally change their names to publish notice for two consecutive weeks instead of the current four, matching the existing minor requirement.

Proponents including Carter Matt of the ACLU of Nebraska said the change simplifies the process, lowers publication costs (which comprise a significant portion of the total name-change expense), and expands access for people who represent themselves. Matt said the differing publication lengths for adults and minors are arbitrary and that equalizing the period to two weeks provides adequate notice while cutting costs in half.

Committee members questioned the historical basis for the four-week adult publication requirement and asked whether the change could affect people seeking protection from abusers. The proponents confirmed courts can already grant publication-waiver requests for safety reasons if an affidavit demonstrates a need for protection.

Sen. Rountree said the bill was prompted by constituent contacts and that he will follow up with committee members about neighboring states’ publication practices and other technical questions raised in the hearing.

The committee concluded the public testimony section with no immediate opposition presented in person; the sponsor said he would work with members on details before any vote.