Deferring gender bill frustrating
Deferring a bill that makes changing gender on birth certificates easier could have dangerous implications for transgender people.
Internal Affairs Minister Tracey Martin has announced the Deaths, Marriages and Relationships Registration Bill was deferred because changes to the bill about gender self-identification were made without adequate public consultation, which created legal problems.
The bill was set to amend the process of changing gender on birth certificates from a
Family Court exercise to a self-declaration, bringing birth certificates into line with drivers’ licenses and passports.
Manawatu¯ Lesbian and
Gay Rights Organisation board member Skye
Shaddix said it was disappointing there was no timeframe in place for further consultation on the amendments to the bill.
‘‘It’s frustrating people have been putting off making the changes,’’ he said.
Shaddix, a transgender man, said delaying the process had already had serious consequences for transgender people who wanted their legal documents to reflect their gender.
‘‘The Government hasn’t thought about implications for young people.’’
The bill would remove significant barriers for people wanting to change their gender, as they would not need to go through the Family Court or provide medical evidence, such as proof of surgery or hormone treatment, of their transition.
Some people might not have access to medical treatment, or were not in the financial position to hire a lawyer to go through the court, Shaddix said.
Shaddix’s passport and licence state his correct gender, but his birth certificate still identifies him as female.