A Missouri judge has upheld the state’s ban on transgender procedures for minors, dismissing a legal challenge to the law. Judge R. Craig Carter of the Circuit Court of Cole County ruled that the challenge failed to prove a medical consensus supporting gender-affirming treatments for adolescents. Carter described the issue as “an ethical minefield” with limited evidence to guide the medical profession.
The Save Adolescents from Experimentation (SAFE) Act prohibits health care providers from prescribing puberty blockers, cross-sex hormones, or performing transgender surgeries on individuals under 18. Minors already receiving such medications before August 28, 2023, can continue treatment. The law also allows patients to file civil lawsuits up to 15 years after treatment ends or after turning 21, with a minimum award of $500,000 for harm caused, such as infertility. Signed by Gov. Mike Parson in June 2023, the law aims to protect children from irreversible treatments they may regret, emphasizing their inability to provide informed consent.
Opponents, including LGBT advocates, health providers, and Missouri families, argued the law violates parental rights to make medical decisions for their children. Carter rejected this, stating the state has a reasonable interest in safeguarding children from treatments that could hinder natural growth. Testimonies during the trial included accounts from detransitioners and medical professionals citing inadequate mental health evaluations at some clinics.
The ACLU and Lambda Legal, representing the plaintiffs, expressed disappointment and announced plans to appeal, calling the ruling discriminatory. Missouri Attorney General Andrew Bailey praised the decision, citing the state’s responsibility to protect children and ensure awareness of the scientific limitations of such procedures.
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