August 1, 23

NEWS / Bill allowing non-binary gender option on birth certificates, driver’s licenses passes MA State Senate

A bill allowing individuals who identify as non-binary to change the gender shown their Massachusetts birth certificates or driver’s licenses has unanimously passed the State Senate. “Giving people the opportunity to be who they are is a human right, and one that we are proud to extend to every member of the Commonwealth, regardless of how they identify,” State Senate President Karen E. Spilka was quoted by MassLive as saying, “Allowing a nonbinary option for state licenses and birth certificates is fundamental to building a society that welcomes, protects, and respects all individuals.” The bill, known as “An Act relative to gender identity on Massachusetts identification,” overhauls current legislation, which permits gender changes on Massachusetts birth certificates and driver’s licenses if the applicant provides a formal note from their physician confirming that the resident has completed medical intervention. If the bill becomes law, individuals would be able to amend their gender by simply submitting a signed affidavit. Massachusetts may therefore soon join 26 other states that allow individuals to change the gender listed on their birth certificate without documentation from a court or clinic. It may also join the 16 states that permit an “X” gender designation. In practice, the Massachusetts Registry of Motor Vehicles has already been offering an “X” gender option on driver’s license applications since 2019. In order for the bill to become law, it would need to pass the Massachusetts House of Representatives and be signed into law by Governor Maura Healey. If you have questions about retrieving, amending, or legalizing your birth certificate, you may wish to check out our webpage on birth certificates. You can also call us at (212) 233-7061 or e-mail us at info@apostille.us. You can access the original story by clicking here.