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Bill

SB 406

Relating to the required inclusion of a person's sex on a birth certificate and prohibited change of sex on the birth certificate of certain persons.

89th Legislature (2025) Introduced by Bob Hall and 2 co-sponsors

Texas bill prohibits changing sex designations on birth certificates for certain persons, restricting transgender individuals' access to identity documents reflecting their legal sex.

Referred to Public Health
#birth&deathcertificates(s6418) #health&humanservicescommission(v0177) #health--general(i0385)
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · SB 406

Legislative bill overview

SB 406 would require that a person's sex be included on their birth certificate and would prohibit changes to the sex designation on birth certificates for certain individuals. The bill appears designed to restrict or eliminate the ability of some people, likely transgender individuals, to update their sex designation on vital records documents.

Why is this important

Birth certificates are foundational identity documents used for employment, healthcare, education, travel, and legal purposes. Restrictions on updating sex designations directly affect individuals' ability to obtain documents matching their identity, creating practical barriers in daily life and potential discrimination. This represents a significant shift in vital records policy that affects transgender and intersex Texans' access to consistent legal documentation.

Potential points of contention

  • Medical and legal standards: Many states and medical organizations support allowing sex designation changes based on medical evidence; this bill's restrictions may conflict with established practices and create inconsistencies with other state laws
  • Constitutional questions: Restrictions on changing vital records could face legal challenges regarding equal protection and due process rights
  • Practical implementation: Enforcement raises questions about how sex is defined, which individuals are restricted, and how to handle people born with intersex conditions
  • Healthcare and safety concerns: Mismatched identity documents can complicate medical care and create safety risks for the individuals affected

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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