Tye Thompson

My name is Tye Thompson and I am a resident of Nottingham. I am here today to urge you to vote ITL (Inexpedient to Legislate) on HB 1165. I currently hold a New Hampshire driver’s license with an “X” gender marker. This is my accurate gender identity, and right now, all of my legal documents are congruent. My birth certificate, my federal identification, and my state license all match. In 2019, this legislature passed HB 669 with bipartisan support through voice votes in both the House and Senate. Republican Governor Chris Sununu allowed it to become law, recognizing that everyone deserves identification that is both affirming and accurate. This law was a statement that the will of the people and the dignity of individual Granite Staters could be respected regardless of party lines. HB 1165 seeks to undo this settled, bipartisan progress. Since New Hampshire began offering the "X" marker in 2020, there have been no reported issues from law enforcement. My state-issued ID is a form of government-mandated self-identification. Forcing me to carry a card that misidentifies me is a form of compelled speech. It would force me to present a false identity. This is a direct violation of my right to informational privacy, a value that is central to the "Live Free or Die" spirit. In the spirit of “Live Free or Die” I am deeply concerned by the context of this bill as the opening salvo for 10 bills this week that target transgender people other members of the LGBTQIA community, the ways that we are visible, and the ways in which we are able access to the every-day people places and things that support health and wellbeing. History shows us that authoritarian states target minorities to consolidate power by creating a common enemy, diverting public frustration, and strengthening in-group solidarity. By scapegoating these groups, leaders justify oppressive, nationalistic policies and maintain control over the majority, often framing the "other" as an existential threat. I am deeply fearful of the trends I am seeing nationally and do not care to see them have home here in the Granite state. HB 1165 follows this dangerous pattern by using the law to "other" a segment of the Granite State population that is simply trying to live peacefully. I am one of the many people across over 20 states and the entire New England region who use this marker. The current system works for me, and it works for the state. I respectfully ask you to protect my privacy and my dignity, and to hold true to the Live Free or Die motto and fierce independence of our state by recommending Inexpedient to Legislate on HB 1165. Thank you for your time and your service.