(ORLANDO, FL) – In an Orlando meeting Florida medical regulators moved a step closer to banning controversial treatments for gender dysphoria in minors.
Despite an outcry from the LGBTQ+ community, a rules committee from the state boards of medicine and osteopaths advanced the change to their full panels.
The proposal bans physicians from prescribing puberty blockers, cross-hormone therapy, or top and bottom surgeries to those under 18 specifically seeking gender dysphoria treatment.
Supporters of the ban believed the risks of the therapies and procedures outweighed the benefits, even as numerous medical organizations, including the American Academy of Pediatrics, support gender-affirming care as both safe and effective.
The vote came after hours of public comment, including from parents of trans children and those who had de-transitioned.
Committee members crafted an exception to the ban for clinical research. They also considered upgrading consent requirements for those already getting the therapies but agreed to discuss that at a later time.
The full medical boards have scheduled a joint conference next Friday. Members may take up the change and possibly approve it. If they do, LGBTQ+ civil rights groups warned Friday afternoon a lawsuit is likely.