Judge Claims DeSantis Misled Public in Trans Health Care Ban
TL/DR –
A Florida federal judge hearing a challenge to a ban on transgender health care for minors and restrictions for adults criticized Republican Florida Governor Ron DeSantis for spreading false information about the law. The judge voiced skepticism about the state’s motivation behind the law and will issue a ruling sometime in the new year. The law, which also places restrictions on adult trans care, is being challenged for deliberately targeting transgender individuals and is part of a wider trend across the U.S, with at least 22 states having enacted similar laws.
TALLAHASSEE, Fla. — Federal Judge Probes Florida’s Transgender Health Care Ban
Florida’s recent transgender health care ban for minors and adult restriction is under scrutiny, as a federal judge questioned the spread of false information by Republican Governor Ron DeSantis. Judge Robert Hinkle noted the law’s promotion as a defense against supposed mutilation, rather than its actual function of preventing transgender children from receiving necessary health care.
“This seems to be more than just hyperbole,” Hinkle remarked, expressing skepticism over the state’s motivation during the closing arguments. He plans to rule in the new year on whether the new law deliberately targets transgender individuals.
Under challenge is Florida’s ban on medical treatments for transgender children, such as hormone therapy or puberty blockers, along with restrictions placed on adult trans care. The ban was a key point during DeSantis’ presidential campaign.
Speaking for the state, lawyer Mohammad Jazil argued the law was driven by public safety concerns, given the permanent consequences of certain treatments. Jazil insisted the law was not about targeting transgender individuals. However, Hinkle countered that a total ban on all treatments would be hard to defend.
Hinkle has temporarily blocked the enforcement of the law for minors, pending the trial’s outcome. The lawsuit also contests adult trans care restrictions, which have been implemented during the trial.
Currently, 22 states have enacted laws restricting or banning gender-affirming medical care for transgender minors, leading to numerous lawsuits. Enforcement is blocked in three states including Florida, while seven states have allowed or will soon allow these laws.
Thomas Redburn, an attorney for transgender adults and families of trans children, accused DeSantis and the Legislature of repeated targeting of the transgender community. He cited laws affecting pronoun use in schools, teaching of gender identification, public bathroom restrictions, and prohibiting trans girls from participating in girls sports.
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