SEATTLE — Washington health officials  announced Thursday that starting Jan. 27 there will be a third gender option for state birth certificates.

People in Washington state will now be able to change their sex designation on their birth certificate to "X," according to a  Washington  Department of Health news release.

"After receiving and considering public comment, the agency determined that this rule change will provide individuals with the option to have a birth certificate that aligns with their gender identity," the department said.

Supporters say the third option would alleviate confusion and frustration and create an atmosphere of better understanding.

Critics say the third gender option could have unintended consequences like making state statistics unreliable.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.