After a recent U.S. Supreme Court decision affirming the constitutionality of bans on gender affirming care for minors, Arizona's State Superintendent of Public Instruction Tom Horne is now calling for state legislation that would follow suit. In a press release issued by Horne, he urges the state legislature to "pass legislation banning youth gender care" in line with the new judicial precedent set by the nation's highest court.
The Supreme Court, in its ruling, acknowledged the heated scientific and policy debates surrounding these medical treatments for transgender youth. "This case carries with it the weight of fierce scientific and policy debates about the safety, efficacy, and propriety of medical treatments in an evolving field," the Court stated, according to a press release obtained from the Arizona Department of Education. Horne backs this perspective, adding that his review of the issue, conducted while defending Arizona's law excluding trans girls from girls' sports, has led him to believe that gender affirming procedures are harmful to minors.
Citing international cases, Horne pointed out that countries like England have ceased such care, claiming "long-term negative effects." He referenced Sweden's stance as well, stating that their health authorities found "the risks of puberty blockers and hormones currently outweigh the possible benefits pretty heavily." These remarks aim to bolster his call for Arizona to enact corresponding legislation. Horne's press release asserts, "20 states have banned this procedure from being inflicted on immature minors."
The Supreme Court's decision had noted potential severe consequences for minors undergoing gender affirming care, citing concerns about irreversible sterility and mental health risks. Horne took these points to heart, affirming, "The United States Supreme Court stated that such treatments can lead to the minor becoming irreversibly sterile, having increased risk of disease and illness, or suffering from adverse and sometimes fatal psychological consequences." According to the Arizona Department of Education, the Court also emphasized the belief that minors "lack the maturity to fully understand and appreciate these consequences."
Horne concluded his call to action by emphasizing the profound implications such a ban on gender affirming care would have on children in Arizona. "It is long past time for Arizona to act," Horne stated, positioning himself alongside the Supreme Court's judgment and the movements in other states. It remains to be seen how the Arizona legislature will respond to this call amidst ongoing debates across the country concerning transgender rights and healthcare.
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