The US House of Representatives has passed a bill that aims to criminalize performing gender transition treatments on minors, with the legislation sponsored by Congresswoman Marjorie Taylor Greene. The “Protect Children’s Innocence Act” passed by a narrow margin of 216-211 votes on Wednesday and seeks to impose penalties of up to 10 years in prison for medical interventions, surgeries, and hormone treatments for gender-changing purposes on individuals under the age of 18.
The bill’s passage is part of a broader effort by US President Donald Trump to reverse federal policies on transgender issues. Since taking office, Trump has signed executive orders ending government support for gender transition procedures for people under 19 and directed federal agencies to withdraw policies that recognize gender identity beyond biological sex. Additionally, Trump has ordered bans on transgender participation in women’s sports at federally regulated events and reinstated restrictions on transgender individuals serving in the US military.
The House action has been met with criticism from Democrats, who argue that the bill interferes with parental decision-making and exposes doctors to prosecution for following established medical practices. They also claim that Republicans are “obsessed” with transgender people and are focusing on a “misunderstood and vulnerable 1 percent of the population.”
The bill’s passage in the House is seen as a significant step, but it still needs to clear the Senate to become law. This would require the backing of a bipartisan coalition, which is widely considered unlikely. The legislation has sparked debate about the role of government in regulating medical treatments for transgender minors and the potential consequences for healthcare providers.
The issue of gender transition treatments for minors has been a contentious topic in the US, with some arguing that it is essential to protect children from permanent harm and others claiming that it is a matter of personal choice and medical necessity. As the bill moves forward, it is likely to face continued opposition and scrutiny from various stakeholders, including medical professionals, advocacy groups, and lawmakers.
The US has seen a growing trend of legislation aimed at restricting transgender rights, with several states introducing bills that limit access to gender-affirming care for minors. The international community is watching the developments closely, as the issue has significant implications for human rights and healthcare policies globally.