Security procedures at US airports will be more gender-neutral: scanners used for screening will be changed and an X will be used for pre-screening travelers who do not identify as male or female.
The U.S. Department of Transportation Security will also receive new review instructions that should make procedures less invasive, the Department of Homeland Security said in a statement.
These measures are part of the travel safety measures announced by the Ministry in connection with the Day of Dissemination of Transgender Information. US President Joe Biden marked the day by opposing what his administration called “dangerous anti-transgender legislative attacks” in state chambers across the country.
“DHS is committed to protecting travelers while ensuring that everyone is treated with respect, regardless of gender identity,” said Secretary Alejandro Mallorca.
The Transport Safety Administration said it would update the pre-screening program to include a version of the gender marker “X” in its application, but the agency did not name a date. The new gender marker “X” in applications for a US passport begins on April 11.
Later this year, TSA will begin using scanners with new technology that will replace gender systems and is designed to “promote civil rights and improve customer service.”
TSA will work with airlines to promote the adoption of the gender marker “X”, as well as update the manual for airport inspection staff to eliminate the gender factor when checking documents, said DHS.