The proposed bill would significantly update current statutes by introducing prohibitions on gender transition procedures for individuals under 18 years of age. Specifically, it would prohibit physicians and other health professionals from providing or referring minors for gender transition procedures, and bar the use of public funds for any entity that provides such procedures to minors. Additionally, it would prevent the Arizona Health Care Cost Containment System from reimbursing costs for these procedures for individuals under 18. The bill also establishes disciplinary actions for health professionals who violate these prohibitions and includes definitions related to gender transition procedures. Moreover, the bill allows individuals to assert claims for violations and seek various forms of relief, including compensatory damages, with claims needing to be filed within two years. It clarifies that minors can initiate actions through a parent or guardian and maintains the Attorney General's authority to enforce compliance. The effective date of the act is set for March 31, 2027, providing time for minors currently undergoing treatment to taper off their medications safely. Overall, the bill aims to restrict access to gender transition procedures for minors while establishing legal frameworks for enforcement and accountability.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 32-3230