The bill aims to amend the West Virginia Medical Practice Act and the Osteopathic Physicians and Surgeons Act by prohibiting the provision of hormone therapy as a medical treatment for minors. Specifically, it removes the allowance for "pubertal modulating and hormonal therapy" for severe gender dysphoria, stating that "hormonal therapy, otherwise known as 'hormone blockers,' may not be provided in any circumstance." This change is intended to restrict access to gender-altering medications and irreversible gender reassignment surgeries for individuals under 18 years of age, except in specific medical situations related to disorders of sexual development or other critical health conditions.

Additionally, the bill clarifies definitions related to biological sex, gender, and gender transition, emphasizing that medical practices must adhere to these definitions when treating minors. The provisions of this bill are set to take effect on January 1, 2024, reflecting a significant shift in the approach to medical treatment for minors experiencing gender dysphoria in West Virginia.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 30-3-20, 30-14-17