Subject of a birth record allowed to change, remove, or add sex indicator on birth records.
Summary
House File 3075 (HF3075) aims to establish a legal framework within Minnesota law that allows individuals to change, remove, or add the sex indicator on their birth records. This bill recognizes the rights of persons aged 18 and older, as well as emancipated minors, to request modifications to their birth records, facilitating a process that acknowledges individual gender identity. If the individual is a minor or incapacitated, a parent or guardian can initiate the request, reflecting a recognition of the importance of family support in such decisions.
The proposed legislation outlines specific requirements for documentation that must accompany requests for changes to birth records. Acceptable documentation includes a statement from a medical provider confirming the appropriateness of the requested change, a court order, or a sworn statement made in good faith. This structured approach aims to protect against fraudulent modifications while ensuring that legitimate requests are addressed expediently by the Commissioner of Health.
Furthermore, HF3075 incorporates a judicial element, allowing individuals to file petitions in district court if necessary. Such petitions would be evaluated based on the good faith nature of the request, ensuring that the court’s considerations are aligned with the best interests of minors as well. Once successful changes are made, previous birth records would be sealed and classified as confidential data, ensuring privacy and protecting individuals’ rights to their personal information.
The bill has drawn both support and criticism from various stakeholders. Proponents argue that it is a vital step toward acknowledging and respecting individual autonomy around gender identity, particularly for transgender and non-binary individuals. Opponents, however, may express concerns regarding potential misuse of the provisions or the implications of altering official state documents. The bill is part of a broader conversation surrounding healthcare access and rights, emphasizing the need for laws that are inclusive and supportive of diverse identities within the state.
Abortion regulating statutes repealed, sex offenses repealed, statutes governing the sale of articles and information and prohibiting advertisements repealed, limitation removed on performance of abortions at birth centers, language stricken regarding medical assistance coverage of abortion, limitation removed on MinnesotaCare coverage of abortion, and conforming changes made.
Criminal records sealing upon granting a pardon extraordinary authorized, and conforming changes made in human services background studies for expungement orders.
Public safety; various policy changes made, including to veterans' license plates, dealer licenses and records, USDOT numbers, and driver's license applications.
Human rights act sections that allow for discrimination based on sexual orientation removal authorization and separate definition of gender identity creation