Sunset Park pol introduces bill that would allow non-binary option at DMV

New legislation introduced by a Sunset Park politician could give drivers the right to choose a non-binary gender when dealing with the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV).

The bill — introduced on Monday, June 19, smack in the middle of Pride Month, by Assemblymember Felix Ortiz — would provide three options for gender designation by driver’s license and learner’s permit applicants: male, female and X. This new designation would give those individuals who do not identify as male or female a third option.

“My bill makes an effort to respect and acknowledge individuals who do not identify in the stereotypical gender binary of male or female. Our governmental agencies should reflect the society we live in,” said Ortiz in a statement. “While this change may seem small, it is a step forward to change the rigid mindset often faced by many today.”

The bill’s introduction comes less than a week after Oregon became the first state to allow a non-binary gender marker on driver’s licenses. Oregon’s new rule will go into effect July 1.