Comments on Proposed Rule to Amend NYC Health Code Related to Changing Gender Markers on Birth Certificates

SUMMARY

The Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender Rights Committee submited comments on the New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene’s proposed amendments to New York City Health Code § 207.05. The proposed amendments, if enacted, would bring the policy for changing the gender marker on New York City issued birth certificates in line with the medical consensus and the policy in an increasing number of jurisdictions. The proposed rule will require one document from a health care provider affirming that, in keeping with contemporary expert standards regarding gender identity, the applicant’s requested correction of gender marker of male or female accurately reflects the applicant’s gender identity. This policy would lessen discriminatory barriers to transgender people’s obtaining accurate birth certificates. Therefore, the Committee supports the proposed amendments to the policy.