Court Upholds Alabama's Ban on Puberty Blockers and Hormones for Transgender Youth

A federal appeals court has ruled that Alabama can enforce a ban on the use of puberty blockers and hormones to treat transgender children, marking a victory for gender-affirming care restrictions adopted by Republican-led states. The decision leaves families of transgender children scrambling for care, while advocacy groups vow to continue the fight. Major medical groups oppose the bans, stating that treatments are safe if properly administered. The ruling follows a string of decisions against similar bans, with at least 20 states enacting laws restricting or banning gender-affirming care for minors.