Protect Transgender Youth's Healthcare Access in Arizona

HB 2412: Restricting Access to Gender-Affirming Care This legislation poses a grave threat to the wellbeing and rights of transgender youth in Arizona. By prohibiting providers from offering or referring minors for gender-affirming care, it denies essential medical treatment to those experiencing gender dysphoria. Such care is widely endorsed by major medical associations as safe, effective, and often lifesaving. Penalizing violations with severe penalties will have a chilling effect, deterring doctors from providing ethical, evidence-based care out of fear. Furthermore, the ban on public funding, including Medicaid coverage, disproportionately impacts low-income families' ability to access this care. All people, regardless of income level, deserve equitable access to necessary medical treatment. No one should be forced to forgo vital healthcare due to financial constraints. I urge you to oppose HB 2412 and defend the rights of transgender individuals to receive appropriate medical care without discrimination. Gender-affirming care saves lives – restricting access puts vulnerable youth at serious risk. Please prioritize their wellbeing over ideology and vote against this harmful legislation.