Indiana residents will lose the ability to change gender markers on their drivers' licenses starting February 12th, following a quiet rule change enacted by the BMV at the direction of Governor Mike Braun's executive order 25-36. The rule prohibits amendments to gender markers and bans the use of an 'X' for non-binary individuals, closing a decade-long policy allowing such changes. The change faced significant opposition during public hearings, with LGBTQ+ advocacy group IYG calling it discriminatory and dangerous, arguing it puts transgender Hoosiers at risk during routine interactions like traffic stops or entering bars. BMV spokesperson Greg Dunn defended the move, stating the agency considered all public comments and was executing the governor's order, while noting a small window existed before the rule takes effect for last-minute gender marker updates via the Social Security Administration.

The policy shift comes amid broader state legislation impacting transgender people, including a Senate-passed bill (SB 182) that could restrict restroom access for transgender individuals in public schools and colleges, pending House approval and the governor's signature. Contact breaking politics reporter Marissa Meador at [email protected] or find her on X at @marissa_meador.__This article originally appeared on Indianapolis Star:Hoosiers will no longer be able to update gender on their IDs_