Judge Blocks Florida’s Ban on Gender-Affirming Healthcare
Federal Judge Declares Ban Unconstitutional
On Tuesday, a federal judge ruled that certain aspects of Florida’s legislation banning puberty blockers and hormone therapy for transgender minors, as well as restrictions on gender-affirming healthcare for adults, are unconstitutional. The judge ordered that these provisions not be enforced.
Background on the Legislation
Republican Florida Governor Ron DeSantis signed the restrictive measures into law in 2023. The law prohibited individuals under 18 from accessing puberty blockers or hormone therapy for treating gender dysphoria. However, it made exceptions for children who had already started gender-affirming care before May 17, 2023, though with new limitations.
Read also : Dozens of families flee Ohio after Ohio Gender-Affirming Care Ban
Broader Context of Legislative Trends
This law is part of a series of restrictive measures introduced by Republicans in recent years aiming to regulate the lives of transgender individuals. The recent ruling represents a significant pushback against these efforts, ensuring that certain gender-affirming healthcare services remain accessible in Florida.