South Carolina Senate Approves Ban On Gender-Affirming Care

South Carolina Sen. Shane Martin, R-Pauline, right, talks to Sen. Ronnie Sabb, D-Greeleyville, left before the Senate started debating a bill that would ban gender-affirming care for transgender minor

The South Carolina Senate has passed a bill that prohibits gender-affirming care for transgender minors. The vote, which was 27-8 in favor, included all Republicans present and one Democrat. The legislation bans health professionals from performing gender-transition surgeries, prescribing puberty blockers, and overseeing hormone treatments for individuals under 18 years old.

Under the bill, school principals must inform parents or guardians if a child wishes to use a name different from their legal one or prefers nicknames or pronouns that do not align with their sex assigned at birth. The House initially approved the bill in January, but the Senate introduced modifications, leading to a final vote.

Supporters of the ban argue that gender identity is rooted in creation and should not be altered. The bill also prohibits the use of Medicaid to cover the costs of gender-affirming care. However, some amendments were made, allowing mental health counselors to discuss banned treatments and permitting doctors to prescribe puberty blockers in certain circumstances.

Opponents of the bill argue that children should be allowed to express their gender identity freely and that government intervention in such matters is unnecessary. They emphasize that gender-affirming treatments can be life-saving for transgender youth, reducing stress, depression, and suicidal behavior.

Legislation bans surgeries, puberty blockers, and hormone treatments for transgender youth.

South Carolina Senate votes 27-8 to prohibit gender-affirming care for minors.

Bill requires parental notification for name/pronoun changes at school.

Supporters argue gender identity should not be altered, oppose Medicaid coverage for care.

Opponents stress importance of allowing children to express gender identity freely.

South Carolina would be 25th state to restrict or ban gender-affirming care for minors.

If signed into law, South Carolina would become the 25th state to restrict or ban gender-affirming care for minors. The bill's passage reflects a growing trend of legislation targeting transgender rights across the United States.

While some senators invoked religious beliefs to support the ban, others emphasized the importance of compassion and empathy towards all individuals, regardless of their gender identity. The bill's impact on the upcoming elections in South Carolina remains uncertain, as public opinion on the issue varies.

Despite the controversy surrounding the bill, doctors and parents have testified that gender-affirming treatments for minors are rare in South Carolina and are only administered after thorough consultation with healthcare professionals. The debate over transgender rights and healthcare access is likely to continue as the bill progresses through the legislative process.