28 June, 2018
BOSTON—Today, the Massachusetts Senate passed Senate Bill 2562, An Act relative to gender identity on Massachusetts identification, which would establish a non-binary gender identity option for Massachusetts licenses. The bill was inspired by a letter from Ella, one of Senator Spilka’s constituents.
“I believe that this bill marks a step in the right direction for transgender, gender non-conforming, and cisgender citizens of the Commonwealth alike,” said Ella. “Whether it be an identity reason, a privacy reason, or otherwise, the symbol of ‘X’ allows individual freedom.”
“When I received Ella’s letter, it was so clear that this was a young person with a very strong sense of self,” said Senator Karen E. Spilka (D-Ashland), lead sponsor of the bill. “Everyone should be free to live their lives in the way they feel most comfortable. For those who do not fit neatly into the traditional categories of ‘male’ or ‘female,’ a non-binary option is a simple way to ensure their ID matches their true lived gender identity.”
“Gender X legislation is a common sense policy for modern-day Massachusetts, and I’m proud that we will join just a handful of states that have already taken this step,” said Senate President Harriette L. Chandler (D-Worcester). “I am incredibly happy that this legislation passed today, and I thank the advocates, the activists, and Chairwoman Spilka for having the courage to speak up for the need for this vital legislation.”
“This legislation affords everyone the opportunity to be included,” said Rep. Patricia A. Haddad, Speaker Pro Tempore, and sponsor of the bill in the House. “By passing this bill, we in Massachusetts stand firmly in welcoming and supporting all individuals.”
The bill requires the Registry of Motor Vehicles (RMV) to allow an applicant for a driver’s license, learner’s permit or ID card to choose “X” instead of “male or “female.” The bill also prohibits the RMV from requiring documentation for such designation.
Oregon, California, Maine and Washington D.C. also have laws allowing a gender neutral identity option on licenses.
The bill now goes to the House of Representatives for consideration.
