BE ALERT: Transgender Texans Are Warned NOT To Request Gender Change On Texas ID

LGBTQ Texans may find themselves in a difficult position when it comes to advocating for what they believe is their God-given right, according to reports from San Antonio News. Texas officials have made decisions affecting transgender individuals, leading to concerns that some may not be able to affirm their identity. Recently, the Texas Department of Public Safety announced in August that it will no longer approve changes to gender markers, even for individuals who have previously received conditional approval.

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BEING YOURSELF IN TEXAS MAY COME AT A COST

This means that transgender individuals who feel they were assigned one sex at birth but identify with another may struggle to have their identity recognized. Despite their deep-seated feelings about their authentic selves, they may not be able to reflect that on their state-issued ID. LGBTQ rights advocates are urging Texans who are transitioning to avoid seeking gender marker changes with the Department of Public Safety. There is concern among LGBTQ officials that a record of these requests is being compiled during a politically charged period that recalls troubling times in the past, as noted by San Antonio News.

WHAT IS NEXT FOR TRANSGENGER TEXANS?

Ash Hall, a policy advocate with the ACLU, stated in an interview that they advise individuals against applying for gender marker changes with the DPS, as it appears the department is collecting data on the transgender community. While DPS claims it needs this information to review court decisions regarding gender marker changes, it raises fears of creating a registry of transgender individuals in a state that many believe does not prioritize their safety.