Court Upholds Gender-Affirming Care Ban for Minors

Source: Mike Kemp / Getty

STATEWIDE – Despite efforts by the ACLU and other organizations, a gender-affirming care ban for children will stay in effect in Indiana.

A federal appeals court ruled Wednesday that the ban – which many have argued negatively impacts LGBTQIA+ youth and their families – is legal under state law.

Essentially, the ban prevents minors from undergoing certain hormone therapies, gender-affirming surgeries, and more.  More than 20 states have passed similar bans.

Some experts claim that access to these treatments is especially pressing for trans children and has been supported by many medical providers, who believe it can reduce depression, suicidality, and other concerns.

Other experts say only about 1% of people who receive transitional surgeries come to regret their decision.  Learn more here.

The ACLU Tweeted, “Trans Hoosiers are an invaluable part of our communities — our state is better because of them.”  But, Attorney General Todd Rokita posted that the ban “will help protect our most precious gift from God — our children.”