West Virginia law bans gender-affirming care for minors

CHARLESTON, W.Va. (WOWK) — A controversial new law banning gender-affirming care for minors has gone into effect in West Virginia.

It is now illegal for medical professionals to prescribe gender-altering medications or perform gender reassignment surgeries on individuals under the age of 18. 

State Sen. Chris Rose (R-Monongalia), who introduced the bill, explained his thoughts on the issue, citing concerns over the long-term impact of such treatments.

“Your brain is not fully developed until you’re 25, and just because someone is having a mental health issue, the last thing we want to do is bring them harm,” Sen. Rose said. “Giving transgender drugs and surgeries to kids that are irreversible, permanent, and that castrate and mutilate their bodies — that does them harm. I’m all about getting them the mental help they need, but not at the expense of their body.”

A spokesperson for Gov. Patrick Morrisey released a statement to 12 News’ Charleston affiliate, WOWK, stating:

“In West Virginia, we are going to lead the way to protect our kids and not allow life-altering gender transition surgeries on minors.”

Opponents of the law, SB 299, including the American Civil Liberties Union of West Virginia, believe it will negatively impact transgender youth and their families.

“This is deeply un-American,” said Eli Baumwell, executive director of the ACLU of West Virginia. “A core American value is the idea of freedom — the idea that we get to define ourselves.”

When speaking on the future of West Virginia with this law in place, Baumwell said that “we’ll absolutely see families leave the state—families who are seeking safe places for their children. And we’re going to see youth struggling with gender identity facing increases in mental health issues, including suicidal thoughts or attempts.”

Doctors who are found to be violating the law beginning Aug. 1 may face disciplinary action, which could include the loss of their medical license.