The proposed bill prohibits the use of state funds for any gender transition procedures and establishes legal protections for parental rights concerning consent for such procedures. It mandates that no state agency, employee, or contractor can provide, allocate, or reimburse funds for these procedures, nor can they facilitate or refer individuals for them. Violations by state employees may result in immediate termination and loss of public employment benefits. Additionally, the bill ensures that a parent's decision to withhold consent for gender transition procedures will not be classified as abuse or neglect, with potential civil liability for any government agency or court that contravenes this provision.
The bill also amends existing laws related to unprofessional conduct for medical professionals, specifically categorizing the performance or referral of gender transition procedures to minors as unprofessional conduct. It enhances the authority of the State Board of Osteopathic Examiners regarding disciplinary actions, allowing for immediate suspensions and jurisdiction over expired licenses. Furthermore, the bill introduces penalties for health care providers who perform or refer gender transition procedures for minors, including felony charges and civil actions by parents or guardians. The legislation aims to strengthen regulatory oversight, protect minors from certain medical procedures, and ensure accountability among licensed health care professionals, taking effect immediately upon passage and approval.
Statutes affected: Introduced: 59-509, 59-567.8, 59-637