Texas House Bill Proposes Felony for Transgender Identification

Texas House Bill 3817, introduced by Republican Rep. Tom Oliverson, aims to criminalize identifying as transgender by making it a state felony to present oneself as anything other than one's biological sex on official documents. If passed, violators could face up to two years in prison and a $10,000 fine, effectively stripping transgender individuals of their legal recognition in various contexts. The bill has sparked significant outrage within the LGBTQ+ community and is viewed as part of a broader national trend of anti-trans legislation. Proponents, including Reps. Steve Toth and Nate Schatzline, argue that the bill addresses concerns over fraud, insisting it does not criminalize being transgender itself, although they controversially characterize transgender identity as a mental illness. Despite the strong backlash and concerns about its implications, the bill's future remains uncertain as it progresses through the legislative process. Many observers believe it is unlikely to be enacted into law.