Colorado lawmakers have proposed a bill to criminalize misgendering on death certificates, sparking heated debate.
Surely this can’t pass…
At a Glance
- House Bill 25-1109 introduced to ensure accurate gender identity on death certificates
- Violators could face up to 120 days in jail or a $750 fine
- Bill aims to prevent distress for families caused by identity discrepancies
- Critics argue the bill may compromise scientific and public health data
- Similar laws exist in other states, but without criminal penalties
Colorado’s Controversial Death Certificate Bill
Colorado legislators have introduced a bill that simply makes no sense. House Bill 25-1109, sponsored by Representatives McCormick and Brown and Senator Weissman, aims to ensure that a deceased person’s “gender identity” is accurately reflected on their death certificate. The proposed legislation would make “misgendering” on death certificates a crime, punishable by up to 120 days in jail or a $750 fine.
A crime.
The bill requires individuals completing death certificates, including doctors, government employees, and morticians, to accurately report the deceased’s gender identity. If passed, the legislation would address discrepancies when a person’s gender identity is not recognized or respected after death, aiming to prevent distress for families and loved ones caused by such inconsistencies.
Under HB25-1109, death certificates would be required to reflect the deceased’s gender identity, conforming to any document that memorializes this identity. In cases where no such document is presented, the sex would be recorded as reported by the person with the right to control the disposition of the remains. The bill proposes penalties for funeral homes and other entities that fail to comply with these requirements.
Concerns and Criticisms
Critics of the bill have raised significant concerns about its potential impact on scientific and public health data. Dr. Travis Morrell, a vocal opponent of the legislation, highlighted the critical role death certificates play in various sectors.
“It’s dangerous and absolutely nuts to threaten doctors with a misdemeanor if they won’t forge a death certificate. But it’s what I’d expect in Colorado,” Dr. Travis Morrell said.
Well said.
Some argue that the bill could compromise the integrity and accuracy of these official documents, which are essential for legal, medical, and research purposes. The proposed criminal penalties have also drawn criticism, as similar laws in states like California, New Jersey, and Rhode Island do not include such severe consequences for non-compliance.
Didn’t they hear? It’s 2025 and we’re not playing these games anymore.
