Trump's order may threaten Massachusetts transgender residents' rights

Massachusetts Attorney General Andrea Campbell and AGs from 11 other states have expressed concern over President Trump's new executive order that recognizes only two sexes: male and female. They believe this order could put transgender residents at risk and violate state laws that protect these individuals. In a letter to Secretary of State Marco Rubio, the attorneys general stated that the changes could lead to harassment and discrimination against transgender, nonbinary, and intersex individuals. They argue that identification documents, like U.S. passports, should reflect a person's true identity. Trump's order, signed on January 20, asserts that sexes are fixed and are not changeable. This move marks a significant shift from the previous administration, which allowed for an “X” option indicating gender on passports. This option was discontinued following Trump’s directive. The letter highlights that the federal government has allowed for transgender identification for nearly 45 years, and the new policy erases that progress. The AGs from states like New York, California, and Oregon joined Campbell in this effort. Additionally, the American Civil Liberties Union has filed a federal lawsuit in Massachusetts. The suit represents seven individuals who are struggling to get passports that match their state-issued gender documentation. The Trump Administration has argued that these plaintiffs have not shown they are experiencing harm under the new policy.