A Texas state lawmaker has proposed a significant amendment to existing legislation that could impact the availability of gender transition procedures or treatment not only for minors but also for adults in the Lone Star State. The bill, known as H.B. 3399 and introduced by Rep. Brent Money, a Republican, seeks to broaden the scope of the state’s ban on gender transition procedures by changing the language to apply to individuals of all ages, replacing the term "child" with "person."
If passed, the proposed law would prohibit medical procedures aimed at transitioning a person’s biological sex or affirming their perception of sex if it does not align with their biological sex. This includes surgeries and the use of puberty-blocking drugs for all Texans, with exceptions for cases involving a doctor prescribing puberty blockers with parental consent to normalize puberty or for surgeries on individuals born with verifiable genetic disorders of sex development.
Individuals who have already started puberty-blocking medications would need to be gradually weaned off these drugs in a medically appropriate manner to minimize potential complications. The bill reflects a broader debate on gender identity and medical interventions, especially for minors, with implications for the transgender community in Texas.
The proposal comes in the wake of Texas Governor Greg Abbott signing a law in 2023 that banned gender-transitioning treatment for transgender youth, a move that faced legal challenges in the Texas Supreme Court. Despite opposition arguing that the ban could have adverse effects on transgender teenagers unable to access recommended treatments, the court upheld the law in a notable 8-1 decision, with one justice dissenting on the grounds of parental rights.
Texas is among at least 25 states that have enacted laws restricting or prohibiting gender-transitioning treatment for transgender minors, reflecting a broader national trend in addressing the intersection of gender identity, healthcare, and legal frameworks. The proposed amendment by Rep. Money underscores the ongoing dialogue and legislative actions surrounding gender transition procedures and treatment in Texas.