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HB 2403

Remove hormone blockers from transgender code

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Michael Amos and 9 co-sponsors

House Bill 2403 bans hormone blockers for minors in gender transition, limiting access to treatments that support mental health and well-being for transgender youth.

To House Health and Human Resources
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Bill Summary · HB 2403

Summary of House Bill 2403 (HB 2403)

Bill Overview

Bill Number: HB 2403
Title: Remove hormone blockers from transgender code
Status: To House Health and Human Resources
Introduced: January 31, 2025
Classification: Bill
Subject: Health

Purpose and Intent

House Bill 2403 aims to amend existing laws regarding medical treatments for minors, specifically targeting the use of hormone blockers in gender transition processes. The bill seeks to prohibit the administration of hormone therapy, including puberty blockers, to individuals under the age of 18, effectively removing these treatments from the medical options available to transgender minors.

Key Provisions

  • Prohibition of Hormone Therapy: The bill explicitly prohibits physicians from providing hormone blockers and other gender-altering medications to minors. This includes:

    • Puberty-blocking medications intended to delay normal puberty.
    • Administration of supraphysiologic doses of testosterone to females and estrogen to males.

  • Exceptions: The bill outlines specific exceptions where treatment may still be provided:

    • Services for individuals born with medically verifiable disorders of sex development.
    • Treatment for infections, injuries, or diseases exacerbated by prior gender transition procedures.
    • Hormonal therapy for severe gender dysphoria is allowed under strict conditions, including:
    • Diagnosis by two qualified medical professionals.
    • Written agreement from the minor's guardians and primary physician.
    • Treatment must be limited to the lowest effective dosage and not intended for gender transition.

  • Effective Date: The provisions of this bill are set to take effect on January 1, 2024.

Impact

  • Affected Population: The primary impact of HB 2403 will be on transgender minors seeking hormone therapy as part of their gender transition. The bill restricts their access to medical treatments that may be deemed necessary for their mental health and well-being.

  • Healthcare Providers: Physicians and healthcare providers will need to adjust their practices to comply with the new restrictions, potentially limiting their ability to offer comprehensive care to transgender youth.

Legislative Timeline

  • January 31, 2025: Bill filed with the Clerk by Rep. Jay Hoffman.
  • February 4, 2025: First reading and referred to the Rules Committee.
  • February 17, 2025: Introduced in the House and referred to the Health and Human Resources Committee.
  • March 3, 2025: Assigned to the Tax Credit and Incentives Subcommittee.
  • March 21, 2025: Re-referred to the Rules Committee.

Conclusion

House Bill 2403 represents a significant legislative effort to regulate medical treatments for minors, particularly concerning gender transition. By prohibiting hormone blockers, the bill aims to reshape the landscape of healthcare options available to transgender youth in West Virginia. The implications of this legislation will likely spark discussions regarding medical ethics, youth rights, and the role of healthcare in gender identity.

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

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