The conservative-majority Supreme Court is considering a case challenging a Tennessee law that restricts gender transition care for minors. President-elect Donald Trump has vowed to limit access to gender-affirming health care, while Democrats, including the Biden administration, seek to increase protections for transgender people. The court’s decision will impact over 20 other states with similar laws. Supporters on both sides gathered outside the court for arguments. The Tennessee law bars gender transition surgery, puberty blockers, and hormone therapy for minors. Supporters of the law argue it is not sex discrimination but a form of medical regulation. The challengers argue that the law violates the 14th Amendment’s equal treatment requirement and discriminates against transgender patients. The Biden administration argues for a strict scrutiny standard in cases affecting transgender people. Major medical organizations support gender-affirming treatments for gender dysphoria, but some conservative figures question their effectiveness. The Supreme Court’s decision could be influenced by a previous case in Idaho, where a similar law was mostly allowed to be enforced. A ruling is expected by June, and there is the possibility of a change in the federal government’s position in the case under the incoming Trump administration.
Photo credit
www.nbcnews.com
