Utah Governor Spencer Cox has signed a bill into law that prohibits gender-affirming medical care for transgender minors, including hormone therapy and surgeries. This new law has sparked criticism from both medical professionals and LGBTQ advocacy groups who argue that it could cause harm to transgender youth. The bill, which will take effect in May 2023, has been described as one of the most restrictive laws in the country aimed at denying care to transgender youth.
Opponents of the bill argue that denying medical care to transgender minors could have serious and long-lasting consequences, including increased rates of depression, anxiety, and suicide. Additionally, they argue that this type of care is medically necessary for many transgender individuals and is crucial for their well-being and overall quality of life.
Medical professionals, including the American Medical Association and the World Professional Association for Transgender Health, have spoken out against the bill, stating that it goes against established medical protocols and standards of care for transgender individuals.
The bill has been criticized as part of a larger trend of bills aimed at limiting the rights of LGBTQ individuals, and has been described as cruel and inhumane by LGBTQ advocacy groups.
