Washington considers non-binary 'X' gender option for birth certificates

Members of the transgender and gender non-binary community gather to celebrate International Transgender Day

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Alexandra Richards6 December 2017

Washington state is considering whether to offer a third gender option on birth certificates for the first time.

In a public hearing held on Tuesday, the state asked for comments on a proposal that would allow parents to choose between male, female and an third option when declaring the sex of their baby.

The third option would be “X” meaning the parents would not have to declare the sex of their child.

Washington currently allows individuals to petition to change their gender; however the new option would be the first time the state offer a non-binary option.

If Washington accepts the proposal it will join California and Oregon in allowing children to have a non binary gender on their birth certificates.

Speaking to KUOW, Christie Spice with the Washington Department of Health said that society is changing.

“More people are identifying as a gender other than a male or female and there’s growing demand for non-binary sex designations on all identity documents, including birth certificates,” Mr Spice said.

According to KUOW, the Department of Health received 1,000 written comments in support and against the change. If it passes then the new rule will go into effect early next year.

As of yet, Washington has not declared whether or not the proposal will cover State ID cards as well, KUOW reported.