Scrutinize gender care restrictions for transgender youth

This proposed Senate Bill 1451 imposes strict restrictions on healthcare professionals providing transition-related care to minors without explicit parental consent. While parental involvement is already required for minors accessing such services, the bill singles out gender-affirming care and introduces severe penalties for violations. Professionals found noncompliant face disciplinary action, civil liability, and criminal charges. The legislation prohibits prescribing puberty blockers, hormones, or providing surgical interventions related to gender transition for patients under 18 without written parental permission. Additionally, referring minors to other providers for these services is also forbidden without proper consent. The only exception allowed is for "corrective" procedures on intersex traits.