Alabama's Gender-Affirming Care Ban Remains

The 11th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals has upheld Alabama's law banning gender-affirming care for transgender minors, which criminalizes the provision of puberty blockers, hormone replacement therapy, and surgeries, punishable by up to 10 years in prison for healthcare professionals. The decision has sparked significant debate, with dissenting judges warning it sets a dangerous precedent that undermines parental rights and medical care access. Alabama Attorney General Steve Marshall praised the ruling as protective of children, while families and advocates condemned it, asserting that medical decisions should reside with families rather than the government. The ruling could impact similar laws in Florida and other states within the 11th Circuit jurisdiction, potentially emboldening further restrictions against transgender youth care. As the U.S. Supreme Court prepares to hear a related case from Tennessee, the national implications of such state bans are becoming increasingly significant. Advocates remain committed to challenging the law and highlighting the benefits of gender-affirming treatments for affected adolescents.