Michigan eases policy over changing gender on driver's license

Detroit (AP) — The state of Michigan is easing a strict policy that made it very difficult for transgender residents to change gender identities on driver's licenses.

In the past, the secretary of state would change gender if someone submitted an amended birth certificate, which typically required proof of transgender surgery.

But many transgender people don't want surgery. Now the state will accept a U.S. passport or passport card as proof of a gender change. The federal government only requires a doctor's note that someone had clinical treatment.

The Detroit Free Press (http://on.freep.com/2bC3iE9 ) says Judge Nancy Edmunds noted the state's policy change Tuesday as she dismissed a lawsuit by the American Civil Liberties Union of Michigan.

The ACLU still is disappointed, saying not everyone can afford a passport or qualify for one.

Information from: Detroit Free Press, http://www.freep.com

Copyright 2016 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.

The Gayly – August 25, 2016 @ 8:15 a.m.