MSPs call for views on Gender Recognition Reform Bill

MSPs have called for evidence from the public as they begin their scrutiny of the Scottish Government's Gender Recognition Reform (Scotland) Bill.

Holyrood's Equalities, Human Rights & Civil Justice Committee issued the call for views as part of its stage 1 consideration of the bill, which would make it easier for trans people to obtain a gender recognition certificate.

The time period that applicants are required to live in their acquired gender would be reduced from two years to three months, with an additional three month reflection period, and applicants would no longer need to provide a medical diagnosis or medical evidence to support their application.

False statutory declarations would be punishable with a sentence of up to two years’ imprisonment and/or a fine.

The committee's call for views includes a short survey, and a detailed consultation.

Committee convener Joe Fitzpatrick MSP commented: “It is vital that we hear from a wide range of voices as part of our inquiry. The views of people and organisations from across the country are crucial to ensuring that any potential impacts of this Bill are properly considered.”

Read the call for views here. The deadline for responses is 16 May 2022.