Louisiana lawmakers took action on Thursday, voting to override Gov. John Bel Edwards’ veto of a bill that prohibits transgender youth from accessing gender-affirming care. This bill had earlier received bipartisan support as it passed through both the House and the Senate. Now, the new law makes it a felony for doctors to provide gender-affirming care to minors.
Supporters of the bill argue that gender-affirming care can be harmful to children and assert that parents should have the final say in deciding their children’s medical treatments. On the other hand, opponents of the bill contend that it is discriminatory and could put transgender youth at risk of harm.
Notably, major medical organizations like the American Academy of Pediatrics, the American Medical Association, and the American Psychological Association have spoken out against the bill. They collectively describe it as “dangerous” and “harmful.”
The passing of this bill represents a significant setback for transgender rights in Louisiana. This state becomes the first one to enact a ban on gender-affirming care for minors since Arkansas implemented a similar ban in 2021. However, it’s worth noting that Arkansas’ ban was later blocked by a federal judge.
Despite the bill becoming law, questions remain about its enforcement, and it is anticipated that legal challenges will follow. The uncertain future of this ban leaves many wondering about its impact on transgender youth in the state.
