In a recent development, transgender Texans are facing a significant obstacle as their driver’s licenses can no longer be updated to reflect their gender identity.

This change follows the circulation of an internal email from the chief of the state’s driver’s license division, as reported by The Texas Tribune.

Previously, Texans could update the sex on their driver’s license through three methods: correcting a clerical error, providing an amended birth certificate, or presenting a court order. However, as of August 20, only corrections for clerical errors are permitted.

Members of the San Antonio Gender Association, Helena Braden, and MacKenzie Swain, expressed their concerns about the impact of this change on the community.

Braden mentioned feeling outraged by the discriminatory nature of the new policy, stating, “This just adds insult to injury for anyone who’s struggling with their own gender identity.”

Swain highlighted the various situations where this change could affect individuals, such as legal matters, everyday interactions, and travel experiences.

Moreover, the directive now requires driver’s license office employees to report personal information of individuals requesting a sex change on their license, raising privacy and usage concerns.

Despite reaching out to the Office of Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton for clarification, inquiries have gone unanswered, prompting calls for transparency and accountability.

Braden emphasized the importance of standing up for human rights, stating, “If you believe in human rights, vote for human rights.”