California bill would allow trans inmates to legally change their name, gender
A new bill introduced in California would make it easier for transgender inmates in the state to legally change their name or gender.
The bill, SB310, was introduced by State Senator Toni Atkins.
The Democrat says that her bill would allow state prison inmates to apply for legal changes without having to seek approval from prison officials.
Atkins’ bill would apply to those incarcerated in county jails.
The bill would effectively equalise the right of those incarcerated to change their name or gender legally as those outside of prison.
The Senator argues that the new law will help trans inmates’ chances of full rehabilitation.
A transgender prisoner in California earlier this year underwent gender-reassignment surgery paid for by the state this week, a first case of its kind in America.
Under its terms, the state agreed to allow inmates who are transgender or have gender dysphoria access to clothing, toiletries and other items consistent with their gender identities. For those like Shiloh whose doctors agree that surgery is medically appropriate, the state will pay for the procedure. The cost was not specified.
Kria Hayashi, the executive director for the Transgender Law Centre said that the surgery set precedent for others seeking surgery.
