Legal Battle Ensues Over Missouri's Ban on Gender-Affirming Care for Transgender Minors

Three families with transgender children have filed a lawsuit to block a new Missouri law that would ban gender-affirming care for most minors in the state. The law, set to go into effect on August 28, prohibits health care providers from performing gender transition surgeries, puberty blockers, and hormone treatments for those under 18, with an exception for those already receiving treatment. The families argue that the law endangers their children's health and well-being. At least 19 states have passed similar laws restricting access to gender-affirming care for minors, while some states have built in limited exceptions.