Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton publicly denounced the gender-affirming health care system for transgender children. He issued a legal opinion defining the procedures as “child abuse.” 

The Republican Attorney wrote in a statement, “There is no doubt that these procedures are ‘abuse’ under Texas law, and thus must be halted.” He also stated the responsibility of the Texas Department of Family and Protective Services to act accordingly. 

According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, certain hormone therapy or surgery and even puberty blockers are not the only gender-affirming care option. These therapies are critical in the treatment of gender dysphoria, or when a person's gender identification differs from that assigned at birth.

Gender-affirming therapy has been touted by medical organizations as the best effective treatment for all gender-related disorders. The American Medical Association, the American Psychological Association, and the American Psychiatric Association have all released statements in favor of medically required therapy as judged by the patient and their health care practitioner. It is a medical necessity since it is both a need and essential for patients.

As a significant political priority, Texas Republicans have imposed new constraints on transgender youth. Since the passage of House Bill 25, which prohibits transgender kids from participating on some sports teams, these limitations have progressively gained traction.

Texas Freedom Network president Val Benavidez stated, “it is abundantly clear that Paxton sees transgender children as nothing more than political pawns. Their safety is certainly not his concern.” 

Paxton continued to argue that these procedures can cause “mental and emotional injury,” which will negatively affect the child’s “growth, development, or psychological functioning.” 

In essence, Paxton equates the gender-affirming procedures with the “[infringement] upon the fundamental human right to procreate.” 

Some local officials have stated their opposition to Paxton’s standings. Harris County Attorney Christian D. Menefee released a statement regarding Paxton “ignoring medical professionals and intentionally misrepresenting the law to the detriment of transgender children and their families.”

These restraints are likely to be maintained, as the Texas Republicans are adamant about making it a priority.

By Emilie Chi