Planned Parenthood of Southern New England Applauds Connecticut DMV for Recognizing Non-Binary Gender Identities
Contact: [email protected]
For Immediate Release: Jan. 30, 2020
Statement by Gretchen Raffa, Director of Public Policy, Advocacy, and Strategic Engagement, Planned Parenthood of Southern New England:
“This week, a new rule at the Connecticut Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) went into effect that gives residents the option of a non-binary gender marker designated by the letter ‘X’ on their driver’s licenses and state ID cards. This new administrative change complements a 2019 policy to issue birth certificate replacements with a similar ‘X’ designation for those with non-binary gender identities. Connecticut now joins approximately 16 states across the country implementing non-binary markers on one of the most common forms of state-issued identification: a driver’s license.
“We applaud the Connecticut DMV for implementing this new policy and for affirming members of the LGBTQ+ community and anyone who do not use a binary gender designation like ‘male’ or ‘female’. Everyone has the right to have their official identification match their individual gender identity and expression. With this policy, the State of Connecticut continues to recognize and respect the unique and incredibly personal ways in which people self-identify and express their gender.
“The gender self-identification on driver’s licenses and state IDs does not require any medical documentation. Gender identification can be changed using this form. A $30 fee applies to issue a duplicate license, but a change can be issued for licenses up for renewal in 6 months requiring only the usual renewal fee.
“As a member of the CT Equality coalition, Planned Parenthood of Southern New England is committed to fighting for statewide policies that achieve equity and justice for the LGBTQ+ community. Thank you to DMV Commissioner Sibongile Magubane and State Representative David Michel (D-146), who championed similar legislation last session, and our legislators and champions for working to make Connecticut more inclusive, equitable, and affirming for all people.”