Overview

This bill amends the Gender Recognition Act 2004, requiring individuals applying for a Gender Recognition Certificate (GRC) who are married to declare that they have informed their spouse of the application and provide their spouse's address. The bill also introduces penalties for providing false information in this declaration.

Description

Key Changes to the Gender Recognition Act 2004

The bill modifies sections 3, 3B, 3D, 3F and 4 of the 2004 Act. These changes mandate that married applicants for a GRC must declare they have informed their spouse and provide their spouse's current address. The Gender Recognition Panel will then notify the spouse in writing. Failure to provide accurate information is made a punishable offence.

Penalties for False Declarations

A new section (3G) is added, introducing penalties for providing false declarations about spousal notification or address. These penalties are a fine in England and Wales, and a fine not exceeding level 5 on the standard scale in Scotland or Northern Ireland.

Government Spending

The bill is not expected to significantly impact government spending. The main costs would be associated with administering the changes to the application process and potentially pursuing legal action against those providing false declarations. No specific figures are provided in the bill text.

Groups Affected

This bill primarily affects:

• Married individuals applying for a GRC: They will face additional requirements in their application process, including notifying their spouse and providing their address.
• Spouses of individuals applying for a GRC: They will receive notification of their spouse's application.
• The Gender Recognition Panel: The panel will have additional administrative tasks to manage the new requirements.
• Legal system: The legal system will be tasked with enforcing penalties for false declarations.

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