Kansas lawmakers ban gender-affirming care for minors

Kansas has implemented a new law banning gender-affirming care for minors, following the Republican-controlled Legislature's decision to override Democratic Governor Laura Kelly's veto on February 18, 2025. This law makes Kansas the 27th state to enforce such prohibitions against transgender health care for youth. The new legislation prohibits the administration of puberty blockers, hormone therapies, and surgeries aimed at helping minors transition from their assigned gender at birth. Supporters of the ban argue that it protects children from what they consider to be irreversible medical decisions, while opposing groups warn that the legislation could lead to further discrimination and limit essential health care options for transgender youth. The law is particularly notable as it comes at a time when there is heightened national debate over transgender rights and health care. Just weeks before the law's passage, former President Donald Trump had issued an order that curtailed federal support for gender-affirming care for youth under 19, which may have influenced the Kansas legislation. Proponents, including key Republican lawmakers, maintain that their actions are in the best interests of children and are reflective of broader societal values on gender identity. Critics, however, including major medical organizations such as the American Medical Association, argue that gender-affirming care is medically necessary and can be life-saving for many transgender minors. They contend that the new law disregards the expertise of health care professionals and places undue burden on families seeking appropriate care for their children. Following the law's passage, several organizations supporting transgender rights are preparing to assist families from Kansas who seek gender-affirming care in other states. The legislation stipulates severe repercussions for health care providers who contravene the ban, including the possibility of losing their medical licenses. The ban's implementation is expected to have far-reaching consequences, both for affected families in Kansas and in shaping future policies related to transgender health care nationwide.