Gender recognition reform bill passes first stage in Scottish parliament
In a major win for trans rights, Scotland’s landmark Gender Recognition Reform Act has passed its first round of voting. Back in March, the Scottish government introduced plans to “improve” the process of getting a Gender Recognition Certificate (GRC) for trans people.
Under the inclusive bill, trans people 16 and older would be able to obtain the aforementioned gender-affirming document. The new legislation would also amend the Gender Recognition Act 2004 and introduce new criteria for applicants to follow.
Among the proposed changes, individuals would no longer be required to supply medical reports or evidence when applying for the certificate.
Trans people would no longer go before the Gender Recognition Panel and instead would be sent to Registrar General for Scotland to start the GRC process.
