Texas is demanding names & medical care plans from trans youth.

Texas is demanding names & medical care plans from trans youth. PFLAG is standing up to the state.

Legal Challenge Against Texas AG

PFLAG National has initiated legal action against Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton, a Republican, for his request for records concerning transgender minors and their families. The lawsuit was filed with assistance from Lambda Legal, the American Civil Liberties Union, and the Transgender Law Center. The organizations are seeking to prevent the enforcement of a civil subpoena issued on February 9 by Paxton, which demands information following statements by PFLAG CEO Brian Bond regarding the impact of Texas law S.B. 14 on gender-affirming care for minors.

https://www.texasattorneygeneral.gov/news/releases/trans-advocacy-group-sues-attorney-general-effort-hide-incriminating-documents

Context of the Legal Action

In response to the 2023 legislation S.B. 14, which prohibits gender-affirming medical treatments for minors in Texas, Brian Bond testified in July that families of transgender and nonbinary youth are exploring alternatives to continue receiving care, with some considering relocation or seeking treatment in other states. The law, despite its restrictions, does not stop families from obtaining gender-affirming care outside Texas, a practice endorsed by major American medical institutions. However, Paxton has extended his scrutiny to healthcare providers beyond Texas, targeting facilities in Washington and Georgia.

Specifics of the Civil Investigation Demand

The demand from the Attorney General’s office, issued on February 5, encompasses all PFLAG documents and communications regarding emergency plans and alternative options for maintaining care in Texas, as mentioned by Bond. Furthermore, Paxton has called for the submission of all references and communications linked to various healthcare providers both within and outside Texas, since March 8, 2023.

Allegations and Responses

The investigation alleges possible “misrepresentations regarding Gender Transitioning and Reassignment Treatments and Procedures,” hinting at potential violations under the Texas Deceptive Trade Practices-Consumer Protection Act. Additionally, Paxton is probing into whether healthcare providers are engaging in insurance fraud by prescribing hormones under false medical pretenses.

PFLAG argues that Paxton’s demands infringe upon constitutional rights and exceed his legal authority, labeling the actions as a retaliation against its advocacy. Statements from both PFLAG and legal representatives from Lambda Legal and the Transgender Law Center criticize the demands as overreaching, retaliatory, and a part of a broader attempt to marginalize transgender individuals and their supporters.