New rules for transgender Albertans to alter birth records (Video)

The Alberta government has established new regulations to simplify the process for transgender residents to change their birth certificates.

Individuals can now have their gender identity reflected on government issued ID cards, birth certificates and driver’s licences by confirming it with a single affidavit from a physician or psychologist without reference to surgery, as opposed to the two affidavits needed in the past to confirm with reference to surgery.

“These changes are a major step forward in supporting transgender individuals and their families,” said Dr. Kristopher Wells, Institute for Sexual Minority Studies and Services in a release.

“Removing barriers for some of our most vulnerable citizens represents progress in building a more inclusive, welcoming, and respectful province for all Albertans.”

Alberta follows suit from other provinces who have implemented similar changes to remove the requirement for surgery to change the sex on birth records.

“Our laws respect the rights of Albertans, and reflect the values of a modern society. These regulatory changes support those important goals,” said Stephen Khan, Minister of Service Alberta in a release.

Agencies/Canadajournal