Transition Care for Trans Youth is Child Abuse, says Texas Attorney General

Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton, the main legal advisor in Texas, states his opinion on trans youth: Gender affirming procedures are “no doubt [. . .] abuse[,]” and he will “do everything [he] can to protect those who [. . .] harm young Texans” (Texas Attorney General).

Paxton continues that providing medical care such as puberty blockers and hormone therapy to trans youth is child abuse “under state law,” and wants the Department of Family and Protective Services to “act accordingly” (NBC News).

Paxton believes that his statement can be an interpretation of current laws. Adri Perez, an advocacy strategist for LGBT+ rights at the American Civil Liberties Union of Texas, says that as of today, “no court in [. . .] the entire country has found that gender affirming care can constitute child abuse” (NBC News).

Perez said that his opinion could be interpreted as law, even though it’s not legally binding. His statement is just that, a statement. Those who misunderstand his power could lead to mandatory reporters to think they need to report it as child abuse. A large influx of false reports and bullying on queer youth and their parents could be underway because of this.

Many people in and out of Texas disagree with Paxton’s views, and even the White House condemns his thoughts. A White House spokesperson told ABC News that Paxton’s “attack on loving parents who seek medical care for their transgender children is dangerous to the health of the kids” (ABC News).

Paxton’s influence could misinform citizens and severely hurt trans and queer youth in Texas.