Oregon Eases Requirement on Birth Certificate for Transgendered People

Recently, Gov. Kate Brown has signed a bill making it easier for transgendered individuals to update their birth certificates without hassle. Prior to recent changes, transgendered people who wished to change their birth certificate would have to put a public notice posted in the county clerk’s office, and then go through a court process.

Oregon is the second state in the nation that is going about making this process much easier. California was the first state to put it into effect. Not only is the process more simple and private, but it’s also much cheaper and more accessible. The state’s Office of Vital Records is currently in the process of developing new forms.
 
Those in the transgender community have spoken out, saying that the court process is insensitive. In open courtrooms, they are asked to divulge private medical questions and personal information. Putting a name change on a public bulletin board can itself be embarrassing and unjust.
 
Often, a transgender person can have few financial resources. Also, public posting is definitely a deterrent to some, as it could initiate harassment and violence.  Activists have argued that this is especially true for smaller communities.
 
Makes It Easier to Change Other Documents

Having a revised birth certificate will allow people to easily change their names on driver’s licenses, insurance policies, lease agreements, and other important documents. This change will make it easier for transgender individuals to obtain identification to then have access to medical care, jobs, and other basic life necessities.
 
The bill will go into effect early 2018. The process of filling out a paper is done at a DMV and is estimated to cost about $65. Without this bill, in order to change a name on a birth certificate, people could be looking at upward of $100 or more with incurred court fees.
 
Transgender rights have been a sensitive issue lately, especially when it comes to the use of public restrooms. Debates and discussions have taken place in schools, restaurants, parks, and more. This is a big win for the transgender community.

No Place for Hate

This law comes after the recent and tragic stabbing that happened on the MAX in Portland when three men defending two women from a man yelling religious and racial slurs were stabbed, two of whom lost their lives. The Oregon governor declares that there is no room for hate in Oregon—of any kind.
 
This is definitely a progressive form of legislation. Gov. Kate Brown is the nation’s first and only openly bi-sexual elected governor. Oregon is one of the leaders in LGBTQ rights and has passed a law banning discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity and several others bills to protect human rights. However, this particular bill is the first piece of trans-supportive legislation that has been set to be put into effect.
 
Need to Change Your Birth Certificate?

If you are in need of changing your birth certificate, don’t hesitate to reach out to FastBirthCertificates.com for your updated documentation. With the Oregon gender identity law, it is now easier than ever to adjust your paperwork to suit your needs.