Louisiana's Triumph: Ban on Transgender Treatments for Minors Passed with Bipartisan Support

In a victory for parents and the safety of children, Louisiana’s Republican lawmakers have passed a law banning transgender treatments for minors.

The ban, seen as a safeguard against the untested dangers of these treatments on the young, was championed by its Republican sponsor and earned a “veto-proof” majority vote.

The law’s stalwart supporter, Louisiana State Rep. Gabe Firment, a conservative champion of the state’s youth, has been an outspoken critic of pediatric transgender procedures. Speaking with Fox News Digital, he triumphantly announced the law’s passage.

Firment stated, “Thanks to the bi-partisan support of the Louisiana State Senate, we are one step closer to protecting children in Louisiana from experimental chemical and surgical sex change procedures. HB648 has passed both chambers of the state legislature with veto-proof majorities, and the people of Louisiana have made it clear that our children are worth fighting for.”

He expressed gratitude to a coalition of advocates who aided in this vital cause. “The passage of this important legislation would not have been possible without the help of courageous detransitioners, brave Louisiana physicians and advocates, and parents and grandparents across our great state,” he said.

“It is my sincere hope that Governor Edwards will allow this bill to become law, ensuring that Louisiana children receive compassionate mental health care and a future filled with hope, happiness, and opportunity,” Firment added.

Democratic Governor of Louisiana, John Bel Edwards, did not immediately comment. However, the robust support for the measure in the State Legislature may mean a veto is beyond his reach, as reported by The New York Times.

On his Twitter, Firment shared compelling evidence of the potential risks associated with transgender treatments for minors. He posted an op-ed from the Wall Street Journal, which starkly outlines the peril of such practices.

Do you agree with the Louisiana law banning transgender treatments on minors?

The op-ed soberly noted, “Gender-affirming care for children is… a human experiment on children and teens… Ignoring the long-term dangers posed by unrestricted off-label dispensing of powerful puberty blockers and cross-sex hormones… borders on child abuse.”

From @WSJopinion. “Gender-affirming care for children is… a human experiment on children and teens… Ignoring the long-term dangers posed by unrestricted off-label dispensing of powerful puberty blockers and cross-sex hormones… borders on child abuse.”#lalege #lagov https://t.co/0MGnEc4FgO

— State Representative Gabe Firment (@FirmentGabe) June 8, 2023

The journey to this law’s passage was not without hurdles. According to AP News, the bill was originally blocked in a legislative committee in May, a move they reported as a “rare occurrence.” But in a testament to the unwavering resolve of its supporters, the bill was resurrected in June.

In the wake of Wednesday’s victory, Louisiana is poised to join an increasing number of states nationwide adopting measures to restrict or outright ban transgender surgeries for minors. This growing trend reflects a welcome return to the principle of protecting the health and welfare of our children.

As an example, Florida Governor Ron DeSantis upheld the rights of children and educators alike in May. He signed laws banning transgender surgeries on minors and offering protections for teachers who resist the imposition of enforced “pronouns” in the classroom.

As we champion the rights of our children, we uphold the principles our nation was founded upon: liberty, self-determination, and protection from undue coercion. Today, Louisiana stands proudly as a beacon of these values.

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