House Bill 135, introduced by Representative Phelps in Missouri on January 16, 2025, seeks to amend the existing regulations surrounding gender designation on driver's licenses. The bill proposes to repeal the current section 302.171 of the Revised Statutes of Missouri and replace it with a new section that outlines the requirements for issuing driver's licenses, particularly focusing on the verification of residency and lawful immigration status.

The primary purpose of House Bill 135 is to ensure that the director of the Department of Revenue verifies that all applicants for a driver's license are either Missouri residents, U.S. nationals, or noncitizens with lawful immigration status. The bill stipulates that licenses cannot be issued for a duration that exceeds the applicant's lawful immigration status. Additionally, it allows the director to establish procedures for verifying residency and immigration status, as well as the duration of the licenses issued.

While the bill does not explicitly address gender designation, its implications could affect how gender is recorded on driver's licenses, particularly for noncitizens and individuals undergoing gender transition. This aspect has sparked discussions among advocacy groups, who argue that the bill may inadvertently complicate the process for individuals seeking to update their gender on official documents.

Debate surrounding House Bill 135 has highlighted concerns about potential discrimination and the bureaucratic challenges faced by transgender individuals and noncitizens. Critics argue that the bill could create barriers for these groups, while supporters maintain that it is necessary for ensuring the integrity of the licensing process.

The economic and social implications of this bill could be significant, particularly for communities that are already marginalized. Experts suggest that the bill may lead to increased difficulties for noncitizens and transgender individuals in obtaining essential identification, which could affect their access to services and employment opportunities.

As the legislative session progresses, the future of House Bill 135 remains uncertain. Stakeholders are closely monitoring the discussions, with potential amendments likely to address the concerns raised by various advocacy groups. The outcome of this bill could set a precedent for how gender and immigration status are handled in Missouri's licensing system, impacting many residents in the state.