Montana Governor Signs Bill Restricting Gender-Affirming Medical Care for Transgender Kids, Sparking Debate and Criticism

On Friday, Montana Governor Greg Gianforte signed a bill that bans or restricts gender-affirming medical care for transgender kids, despite protests from the families of transgender youth that the care is essential. This makes Montana one of at least 15 states with laws to ban such care.

Exiled transgender lawmaker Zooey Zephyr spoke out against the bill, saying “it is unconscionable to deprive Montanans of the care that we need.” Her remarks drew national attention and sparked debate, leading to Republican House Speaker Matt Regier punishing Zephyr by refusing to let her speak on the House floor until she apologized.

The bill has been met with criticism from advocates of transgender rights, who argue that it will have a negative impact on the health and wellbeing of transgender youth. They point to research that suggests that gender-affirming medical care can be beneficial for transgender youth, helping to reduce depression and anxiety.

The bill is the latest in a series of restrictions on transgender rights that have been passed in various states across the US. Advocates have called on lawmakers to reconsider the bill and to ensure that transgender youth have access to the medical care they need.