The Social Security Administration (SSA) has officially removed the ‘Gender X’ marker from its public-facing applications, a move that federal officials say will save taxpayers over $1 million. The decision, announced by the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), comes as part of a broader rollback of gender-inclusive policies put in place under the previous administration.
Why Was ‘Gender X’ Introduced?
The ‘Gender X’ option was first introduced during the Biden administration to allow non-binary, gender-nonconforming, and intersex individuals to select an alternative to “male” or “female” on their official Social Security records. The initiative aimed to expand inclusivity and offer recognition to individuals who do not strictly identify with traditional gender markers.
However, implementing and maintaining the program came at a high administrative cost, leading critics to argue that taxpayer dollars should be used elsewhere.
What Led to the Reversal?
Under President Donald Trump’s new executive order, federal agencies are now required to use ‘sex’ instead of ‘gender’ on all official documentation. Following this directive, the SSA moved to cancel contracts associated with the ‘Gender X’ marker and eliminate references to gender identity from its applications.
According to DOGE, the policy shift will not only align with the executive order but will also save federal resources that were previously allocated to processing and maintaining gender-neutral identifiers in government records.
Public and Political Reactions
The decision has drawn mixed reactions from both lawmakers and advocacy groups.
- Supporters of the rollback, including Representative Nancy Mace, argue that the ‘Gender X’ marker was an unnecessary expense and that removing it is a step toward fiscal responsibility.
- Critics, including LGBTQ+ rights organizations, see the change as a setback for inclusivity, warning that it will complicate identity documentation for non-binary individuals and create additional barriers for those seeking legal recognition.
In addition to the SSA, several other federal agencies—including the Department of Homeland Security and U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services—have also begun phasing out the ‘Gender X’ option in compliance with the executive order.
What’s Next?
Individuals who previously selected ‘Gender X’ on their Social Security records may need to update their documentation under the new policy. SSA officials advise those affected to contact their local Social Security office for guidance on how to proceed.
As federal agencies continue implementing these changes, the debate over cost-cutting measures versus gender inclusivity is expected to remain a contentious issue in U.S. policy discussions.