Bryan Signs Gender Marker Order
Governor Albert Bryan Jr. has issued Executive Order No. 543-2025, creating the Virgin Islands’ first formal administrative process for changing the gender marker on birth certificates and driver’s licences. The order allows adults—or a parent or guardian for minors—to request amendments from the Office of Vital Statistics or the Bureau of Motor Vehicles with a provider statement or a judicial order.
Governor Albert Bryan Jr. on Wednesday issued Executive Order No. 543-2025, establishing the Virgin Islands’ first formal procedure for residents seeking to change the gender marker on birth certificates and driver’s licences. The order directs the Department of Health’s Office of Vital Statistics and the Bureau of Motor Vehicles to amend gender designations upon request, marking the first time Virgin Islanders will be able to obtain government-issued identification that explicitly reflects their gender identity.
The updated documents will use the term "gender" instead of "sex." Under the new process, applicants aged 18 or older—or a parent or guardian acting on behalf of a minor—may submit a written request to the relevant agency. Each request must include either a statement from a licensed health care provider confirming that a gender designation change is appropriate or a judicial order granting a gender change.
Agencies will review requests under the administrative procedures set out in the executive order. "Virgin Islanders have reached out to our administration seeking a way to have their documents reflect who they truly are," Governor Bryan said. "This Executive Order ensures that our government recognizes and respects the lived realities of all our residents." The move comes after months of debate in the Legislature, where Bill No. 35-0395 stalled amid contentious hearings.
During a November 2024 Committee on Homeland Security, Justice and Public Safety hearing, Assistant Health Commissioner Dr. Nicole Syms testified that aligning legal documents with an individual’s identity could reduce discrimination and improve access to health care. Several senators—including Ray Fonseca, Alma Francis Heyliger and Kenneth Gittens—expressed concerns about broader implications, citing potential effects on sports participation, public facilities and law enforcement databases.
With the legislative measure stalled, the executive order provides an administrative path forward. The Virgin Islands now joins more than two dozen U.S. jurisdictions that allow gender marker changes through executive or administrative action. Residents who wish to update their records are advised to contact the Department of Health’s Office of Vital Statistics or the Bureau of Motor Vehicles for details on required documentation and the submission process.
Local advocates say the change is an important step for many residents seeking accurate identification in daily life and when accessing government services.
Primary source: JTV