Idaho State Capitol – On Wednesday, a bill to ban Idahoans from changing their gender on their birth certificate passed the house floor. In 2018, a federal judge ruled that the state of Idaho must provide avenues for individuals to change their gender on their birth certificate to match their gender identity. This ruling cited that baring the amendment of birth certificates to match one’s gender identity is a violation of the Equal Protection Clause under the U.S. constitution.
“This discriminatory legislation serves no other purpose than to cost Idaho taxpayers millions in the inevitable lawsuit that will come from ignoring a court ruling.” Representative Lauren Nechochea/(D-Boise) explained. “Idahoans currently have the opportunity to change their gender marker through a process that is similar to changing one’s name. There have been no issues with the existing process.”
“Every Idahoan deserves equal access to the protections offered under the U.S. constitution. This legislation undermines the Equal Protection Clause and violates a court mandate. This bill is aimed at a vulnerable population that needs to be protected, not targeted. The blatant disregard for the needs of constituents will waste taxpayer dollars and will not address the concerns that really matter. Funding for schools, adequate healthcare, and solutions to the property tax crisis are being put on the back burner in order to appease discriminatory beliefs that do not prioritize the needs of everyday Idahoans.”