1. United States
2. Ariz.
3. Letter

The proposed H.R. 1276, the "Protect Minors from Medical Malpractice Act of 2023," is deeply concerning and would severely restrict access to essential gender-affirming healthcare for transgender youth across the United States. Denying minors medically necessary treatment and criminalizing their ability to seek care goes against established medical guidelines and violates their fundamental rights. The bill defines sex solely based on characteristics observed at birth, disregarding the complex biological realities of gender identity and expression. Transition-related care, including puberty blockers, hormone therapy, and surgeries, is evidence-based and potentially life-saving for many transgender individuals. Banning such care for youth under 18 and allowing lawsuits against doctors until age 48 creates an unacceptable chilling effect on providers. Furthermore, prohibiting interstate travel, telehealth services, and communication about this care, as well as withholding federal funds from states that require doctors to provide it, constitutes an egregious overreach that undermines medical ethics and personal freedoms. Such policies put the health and wellbeing of transgender youth at grave risk. I urge you to oppose H.R. 1276 that disregards scientific consensus and human rights principles. All people, regardless of age or gender identity, deserve access to competent, affirming medical care without threat of criminalization. Protecting vulnerable groups should be a priority.