Union County Clerk Informs Public Of Recent U.S. Passport Gender Marker Policy Changes

UNION COUNTY, NJ — Union County Clerk Joanne Rajoppi advises that the U.S. Department of State has ceased issuing passports with the “X” gender marker, which prior to Jan. 20, was available to non-binary individuals who do not identify as strictly male or female.

As a result, applications submitted with an “X” gender marker have been placed on hold by the Federal Government.

On Feb. 11, Secretary of State Marco Rubio further instructed State Department staff to assign a male or female sex designation to transgender passport applicants already submitted. If sufficient evidence of biological sex at birth is not provided, applications will be suspended until appropriate documentation is submitted.

For individuals currently holding passports with an “X” gender marker, we recommend contacting the U.S. Department of State for guidance on obtaining a new passport with a male or female designation.

For further information or assistance regarding the recent policy change, contact the U.S. Department of State or visit their official website at www.state.gov.

Union County Clerk Joanne Rajoppi acknowledges the challenges this policy shift may present to our community members who have already applied through one of her Office’s two locations for a passport.

"While our Office does not have the authority to override these Federally mandated changes, we stand in solidarity with those affected and regret any inconvenience caused. This action, which began via a Presidential Executive Order, is beyond our jurisdiction," she added.

The Union County Clerk’s Office remains committed to assisting Union County residents with their passport needs. We provide passport services in two locations on a regular basis, in Elizabeth and Westfield. Services are by appointment only due to a significant increase in demand for passports.

The hours and locations are listed below:

Westfield

• 300 North Avenue East
• Monday, Wednesday, Friday - 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.
• Tuesday, Thursday - 8 a.m. to 7:30 p.m.
• Saturday - 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Elizabeth

• 2 Broad St #115
• Monday through Friday - 7:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.

Visit Union County Passport Appointments to schedule an appointment or call our main office in Elizabeth at 908-527-4966.

We encourage applicants to review the required documentation prior to their appointment to ensure a smooth process. Detailed information can be found at ucnj.org/county-clerk/passport-services/.

This press release was produced by the Union County Office of Public Information and Communications. The views expressed here are the author’s own.