Despite overwhelming opposition, BMV re-animates previously withdrawn ban on gender marker changes

Friday, October 24, 2025 at 10:00 PM

By Kathy Bottorff

This news release was provided by IYG Inspiring Younger Generations, (formerly Indiana Youth Group)

Earlier this year, the Indiana BMV proposed new rules that would prohibit transgender and gender expansive people from obtaining an ID that reflects who they are. Hoosiers spoke out clearly with thousands of emails and hours of public testimony. In response to this clear opposition, the BMV quietly withdrew the rule without providing any public record of that testimony.

Not satisfied with a loud and clear “NO” from Hoosiers, they’ve reintroduced the exact same harmful language for yet another round of public comment.

Denying individuals the right to change the gender marker on their ID is not only discriminatory – it is dangerous. In an increasingly hostile climate, mismatched identification can make people targets for harassment, threats, and violence. It can also result in barriers to employment, housing, and other services.

For many LGBTQ+ young people, like those served by IYG, affirming identification is more than paperwork – it’s safety, dignity, and a small but vital form of recognition from their state.

The people of Indiana already spoke loudly and clearly against this policy. Bringing it back is not only a sign of cruelty and ill will toward queer Hoosiers, but also a direct dismissal of public will.

IYG stands firmly against this proposed rule and alongside every Hoosier whose safety, humanity, and right to self-identification are being threatened. We call on Hoosiers to once again raise their voices during the public comment period. We will not allow our voices to be erased.

Our young people deserve a state that protects them, not one that targets them.