Like a gatekeeper reviewing a guest list, the board of doctors in Florida has tightened its restrictions on gender treatments for minors, leaving no room for exceptions. Just as a bouncer might prevent underage individuals from entering a nightclub, the board has eliminated the option for clinical trials involving puberty blocking hormones and gender-treatment surgeries. This move comes at the behest of Florida Governor Ron DeSantis’ administration, showing a prioritization of conservative values and concerns about the long-term effects of these treatments on young individuals. By limiting access to these medical interventions, there may be fewer opportunities to study their efficacy and impact. However, advocates for gender-affirming care may argue that this rigid ban restricts transgender and gender non-conforming youth from receiving vital medical support. It remains to be seen how this tightening of restrictions will impact Florida’s healthcare landscape and influence other states’ policies on gender treatments for minors.
