Republican Birth Certificate Bill Faces Democrat Backlash
Wisconsin birth certificate bill would limit sex changes after transitions, balancing policy clarity and rights concerns.
Published July 1, 2025

Wisconsin Birth Certificate Policy

A new Wisconsin birth certificate bill, introduced by Rep. Lindee Brill and Sen. Steve Nass, aims to block sex designation changes on birth certificates after gender transitions. The bill defines sex by chromosomes, per [Wisconsin Legislative Documents](https://docs.legis.wisconsin.gov). It seeks to maintain consistency in legal records for healthcare, education, and sports.

Bill’s Key Provisions

Current law allows sex changes on birth certificates post-surgical transition or for errors, with medical and legal steps. The proposed Wisconsin birth certificate bill restricts changes to “biological sex” (male or female, based on chromosomes). Supporters say it ensures clear rules for single-sex spaces, like shelters and athletics, following recent transgender policy laws.

Diverse Perspectives

Critics, including Sen. Melissa Ratcliff and Rep. Ryan Clancy from the Transgender Parent and Nonbinary Advocacy Caucus, call the bill discriminatory. They argue it limits access to jobs, schools, and healthcare by misaligning identity documents. Ratcliff suggests it may violate constitutional rights, citing medical standards.

Looking Ahead

Gov. Tony Evers may veto the bill, as he has similar measures, but the GOP-led Legislature is pushing forward. Legal challenges are likely, with debates focusing on rights versus policy clarity. Public input will shape how Wisconsin handles birth certificate policies, balancing fairness and legal consistency.