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LR 301

Interim study to examine whether socially or medically changing the behavioral or physical characteristics of a child in opposition to the characteristics associated with the child's sex registered at birth constitutes child abuse under the Nebraska Criminal Code

109th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by Kathleen Kauth

Nebraska interim study examining whether gender-affirming medical and social care for minors constitutes criminal child abuse under state law.

Date of introduction
0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · LR 301

Legislative bill overview

LR 301 is an interim study resolution that directs Nebraska legislators to examine whether gender-affirming medical and social interventions for minors—such as social transitions, puberty blockers, and surgeries—should be classified as child abuse under Nebraska's criminal code. The study would investigate the legal and medical frameworks governing these treatments and make recommendations for potential legislative changes.

Why is this important

This study could determine whether parents, medical providers, and others facilitating gender-affirming care for transgender or gender-diverse minors face criminal prosecution. The outcome would affect healthcare access for minors, parental rights, medical provider liability, and how Nebraska legally defines child abuse—issues with significant implications for vulnerable youth and families.

Potential points of contention

  • Medical consensus vs. legal classification: Major medical organizations (AMA, AAP, APA) support age-appropriate gender-affirming care, but the study questions whether this consensus should override criminal law
  • Parental rights and medical autonomy: Disagreement over whether parents should have authority to consent to these treatments or whether the state should restrict them as harmful
  • Definition scope and unintended consequences: Defining "behavioral or physical characteristics" changes broadly could criminalize social support (name/pronoun changes) or capture treatments unrelated to gender identity
  • Evidence standards: Questions about what evidence the study will prioritize and whether international medical guidelines or state-level restrictions will influence recommendations

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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