Much of the narrative around the early Trump presidency has revolved around how active he has been, signing over 60 executive orders in his first ten days alone. However, some Democratic lawmakers at the local level are matching speed with speed, shortening the process for trans residents to update their government documentation.
According to a report from The Advocate, multiple blue states are making it easier for trans citizens to legally affirm their identity in direct response to Trump’s effort to erase all references to trans people at the federal level.
Related
Plaqueboymax’s recent controversy is just one of several
In Washington state, the Department of Health recently announced that it was shortening the 10-month process for changing sex on a birth certificate to a matter of days. “Very proud to announce the Department of Health will now process all requests to change gender designation on birth certificates within three business days,” Gov Bob Ferguson announced on Wednesday. “Previously, there was as much as a 10-month wait.
Join the frontline of change
Be informed, be inspired, and be part of the conversation that’s shaping a queerer world with our newsletter.
“A team of more than a dozen people worked through a weekend to clear the department’s backlog of more than 500 requests. We’re speeding up government and centering the people.”
While Washtington boasts a solid reputation as a reliably liberal state, protections in the midwest are more important than ever. Last week, Illinois Gov JB Pritzker repealed the requirement for legal name changes to be announced in the newspaper prior to taking effect. This brings Illinois in line with over half of US states that don’t require public notices.
The new law, House Bill 5164, now only requires a three month residency (in addition to the usual paperwork and legal fees). But now name change petitioners can also request that their record remain sealed from public disclosure.
Besides the delay involved, public notice requirements represent an especial concern for privacy. In Texas, for example, the Attorney General has repeatedly attempted to collect information about the state’s trans citizens.
“Our residents deserve to be able to change their name in private and without worry for their well-being or safety,” said Sen Ram Villivalam, the bill’s sponsor in the Senate. “Requiring those seeking a name change to publish such change with a local newspaper relinquishes their privacy and poses a threat to the confidentiality of personally identifiable information.”
“Ensuring the safety and privacy of all Illinois residents is a key priority, especially in these uncertain times,” said Rep Kevin Olickal, the bill’s sponsor in the House. “This legislation helps prevent the misuse of state records for political purposes, protecting vulnerable communities from harm and upholding our commitment to keeping all Illinoisans safe.”
Sign up for the INTO newsletter and get your twice-weekly dose of stories that shape the queer experience, culture, and lifestyle.
