Law Passes Allowing Gender Change on Birth Certificates

Hawai‘i lawmakers passed a bill last week that will enable individuals who disagree with the gender designation shown on their birth certification to have it legally changed.

HB 631 passed its final reading in the House on May 7, and was sent to Governor David Ige’s office for final approval.

The bill requires a doctor or mental health professional to provide a letter of confirmation to the department of health stating that the registrant’s birth certificate does not align with their gender identity, and should be changed accordingly.

Applicants must be born within the State of Hawai‘i to be eligible, and already have a birth certificate filed with the department of health.