The Washington PostDemocracy Dies in Darkness

New state bills restrict transgender health care — for adults

Until now, most legislation banning gender-affirming care targeted minors. This year, a growing number of bills would also limit access for adults.

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March 1, 2023 at 9:00 a.m. EST
The Utah Senate recently passed a ban on gender-affirming care for minors, one of several states to pass such laws. Several states are considering bills that would restrict or prohibit the ability of adults to access the care. (Rick Bowmer/AP)
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Republican state Sen. Jack Johnson stood on the Tennessee Senate floor last month to open the discussion on a bill he is co-sponsoring. The measure would limit gender-affirming care such as puberty blockers, hormone therapy and surgeries for minors.

“Let’s put children first and look out for them first and let them make those decisions as adults,” he said. “I support your right to do so, when you’re an adult, not when you’re a child and you do not have the mental capacity to do so.”