As a Virginian and a clergyperson, I want to state my support for the updates to 12 VAC 5-550. I have served transgender people as part of my ministry for years, and I have seen what a positive difference it makes when their identity is fully supported by others.

These important updates will remove outdated language and clarify the gender change process for Virginia birth certificates. Every person in Virginia should have access to identity documents that accurately reflect who they are so they can live and work in the Commonwealth without experiencing discrimination and harassment. Thank you for your consideration.