A Labour MSP is trying to amend Scottish Government plans to simplify the process for a person changing their legally-acquired gender.
Michael Marra’s proposed change to the Gender Recognition Reform Bill would require a counter-signatory as part of any application.
The Bill aims to speed up the time it takes to obtain a gender recognition certificate (GRC) and lowers the age for obtaining one from 18 to 16.
Ministers also want to drop the requirement for a medical diagnosis of gender dysphoria and the need for a doctor’s report.
But the Bill sparked a major rebellion in SNP ranks, with nine MSPs refusing to back the plans during a recent vote.
Critics believe the reforms, particularly over the scrapping of the medical diagnosis, could threaten women’s sex-based rights.
The Bill is now at the amendment stage and a number of MSPs, including Marra, are trying to change it.
Under the existing proposals, an application must include a statutory declaration that the person intends to continue to live in the acquired gender permanently.
Marra’s counter-signatory plan would require a declaration to be accompanied by a signed statement by a person who has personally known the applicant for at least 2 years.
This individual would have to work in a “recognised profession” such as being an accountant, civil servant, dentist, doctor, nurse or a solicitor.
Labour MSPs supported the Bill at stage one, but some members of the group have concerns about aspects of the legislation.
Labour votes are likely to be necessary for the Bill to become law.
The Government has also tabled amendments.
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