BERLIN (AP) — German lawmakers on Friday approved legislation that will make it easier for transgender, intersex and nonbinary people to change their name and gender in official records.
The “self-determination law,” one of several social reforms that Chancellor Olaf Scholz’s liberal-leaning coalition government pledged when it took office in late 2021, is set to take effect on Nov. 1.
Germany, the European Union’s most populous nation, follows several other countries in making the change. Parliament’s lower house, the Bundestag, approved it by 374 votes to 251 with 11 abstentions.
The German legislation will allow adults to change their first name and legal gender at registry offices without further formalities. They will have to notify the office three months before making the change.
The existing “transsexual law,” which dates back four decades, requires individuals who want to change gender on official documents to first obtain assessments from two experts “sufficiently familiar with the particular problems of transsexualism” and then a court decision.
'Constantly learning' Imanaga off to impressive start with the Chicago Cubs
Phish's Trey Anastasio on playing the Sphere, and keeping the creativity going
South Carolina coach Dawn Staley gushes over congratulations from Queen B
China expels teacher for pushing for students to use Tibetan language — Radio Free Asia
NBA playoffs: Edwards leads Wolves to 98
Clippers preparing to have Kawhi Leonard for Game 1 against Mavericks
Who owns businesses in California? A lawmaker wants the public to know
Capitals top prospect Ryan Leonard is returning to Boston College
I was 'brokefished' by my friend for £400
Tennessee judge wants more information on copyright before ruling on school shooter's writings