The U.S. House of Representatives approved legislation on Wednesday that would restrict certain medical transition-related treatments for individuals under the age of 18. The bill addresses procedures such as surgeries and hormone use and includes proposed criminal penalties for medical professionals who violate its provisions. The measure passed by a narrow margin, reflecting strong partisan divisions and drawing immediate national attention.
Supporters of the bill described it as a protective measure for minors, arguing that it is intended to limit access to medical interventions they believe carry long-term consequences. Republican lawmakers stated that the proposal aims to ensure caution in pediatric healthcare decisions and to reduce what they see as external pressures influencing medical practices involving children.
Opposition to the legislation was swift from civil rights organizations, medical associations, and Democratic lawmakers. Critics argued that the bill represents a significant federal intervention into healthcare decisions and could override the judgment of families and qualified medical professionals. They also expressed concern that the measure could discourage doctors from providing care due to fear of legal consequences.
The debate surrounding the bill highlighted ongoing divisions in Congress over healthcare policy and the role of government in medical decision-making. Marjorie Taylor Greene was cited in reports as a prominent advocate for advancing the legislation in the House. While the bill faces uncertainty in the Senate, the vote underscored that related policy discussions are likely to remain a focus of legislative debate in the near future.