Guidance regarding previously issued X sex marker passports is forthcoming,” the spokesperson added, saying updates will be posted on the department’s travel website.The State Department issued its first passport with the X designation in October 2021 after a long legal battle waged by a person from Colorado who is intersex. It began regular processing of X passports in early 2022.The department has not released figures for how many people have requested or been issued an “X” passport, but a study by the UCLA Law School’s Williams Institute estimated over 16,000 people would apply for one each year.On the campaign trail, Trump vilified transgender policies — particularly as they related to women’s sports and medical care for children — as part of a general broadside against diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) initiatives.
He ordered on Monday an immediate halt to federal DEI programs, anti-discrimination policies and recognition of transgender identity, drawing outrage from rights groups and creating immense legal uncertainty.
The actions will almost certainly face legal challenges.
Many states allow drivers’ licenses to be issued with a gender-neutral “X” option, while several countries have similar practices, including Australia, Canada and Germany.
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© Agence France-Presse
