The Texas Attorney General’s Office is set for another legal clash with PFLAG over gender-affirming care for transgender minors, following a judge’s temporary block on Ken Paxton’s order demanding information about families seeking such treatment.
For Hayden Cohen, a 19-year-old nonbinary transgender individual from Texas, the memories of navigating life as a transgender teen remain vivid. They highlight the challenges faced by transgender youth in accessing gender-affirming care, especially after SB 14’s ban on such treatments during the 2023 legislative session.
Cohen emphasizes the importance of gender-affirming care for transgender youth, citing its potential to alleviate gender dysphoria and prevent severe mental health issues. They stress that parents are often supportive but may face a learning curve in understanding and advocating for their children.
The recent order from Paxton’s office to PFLAG raises concerns for Cohen and others. The AG’s office claims it seeks information relevant to investigating potential insurance fraud related to gender-affirming care.
This legal battle is not new for PFLAG, which is involved in multiple lawsuits challenging SB 14 and other restrictive measures targeting transgender youth in Texas.
Despite requests for comment, Paxton’s office remained silent. However, in a recent statement, Paxton reaffirmed Texas’ stance on protecting children from what the state considers harmful medical interventions.
The ACLU, representing PFLAG, intends to pursue a permanent block on Paxton’s demand, stressing the importance of upholding advocacy rights for all Texans.
The Texas Attorney General’s Office is scheduled to argue against the temporary injunction in Travis County Civil District Courts on March 25.
