WeVote
Log In

Bill

Bill

HB 2466

To eliminate the use of puberty blockers for any minor under the age of 18

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Chris Anders and 7 co-sponsors

House Bill 2466 bans puberty blockers for minors under 18 in West Virginia, impacting their access to gender transition treatments and altering healthcare practices.

To House Health and Human Resources
#crime #health
0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HB 2466

Summary of House Bill 2466

Bill Number: HB 2466
Title: To eliminate the use of puberty blockers for any minor under the age of 18
Status: To House Health and Human Resources
Introduced: February 3, 2025
Classification: Bill
Subject: Crime, Health

Purpose and Intent

House Bill 2466 aims to prohibit the use of puberty blockers for minors under the age of 18 in the state of West Virginia. The bill seeks to address concerns regarding the medical treatment of minors experiencing gender dysphoria by restricting access to hormone therapies that are often used in gender transition processes.

Key Provisions

  1. Definition of Terms:

    • The bill defines "gender altering medication" to include puberty blockers, testosterone, and estrogen administered for the purpose of gender transition.
    • It specifies "biological sex" and "gender" to clarify the context in which the bill operates.

  2. Prohibition of Treatment:

    • Physicians are prohibited from prescribing puberty blockers or any gender-altering medications to individuals under 18 years of age, with specific exceptions outlined for individuals with medically verifiable disorders of sex development.

  3. Exceptions:

    • The bill allows for treatment in cases where:
      • A minor has a medically verifiable disorder of sex development.
      • The treatment is necessary to address severe gender dysphoria, provided that specific criteria are met, including diagnosis by qualified medical professionals.

  4. Effective Date:

    • The provisions of the bill are set to take effect on January 1, 2024.

Impact

Who Would Be Affected:

  • Minors: The bill directly impacts minors seeking puberty blockers as part of gender transition treatments.
  • Healthcare Providers: Physicians and mental health professionals will need to adjust their treatment protocols for minors in light of the new restrictions.
  • Families: Families of minors experiencing gender dysphoria may face challenges in accessing medical care that aligns with their child's needs.

Broader Implications:

  • The bill reflects ongoing debates around gender identity and medical treatment for minors, potentially influencing public discourse and policy on related health issues.

Legislative Actions

  • Introduced: February 3, 2025
  • Referred to Committee: February 17, 2025
  • Amendments: House Amendment 001 was filed on March 14, 2025, which includes changes to the Higher Education Student Assistance Act, although it is not directly related to the main provisions of HB 2466.
  • Committee Review: The bill has undergone several committee reviews and amendments, with a significant focus on its implications for healthcare practices.

Conclusion

House Bill 2466 represents a significant legislative effort to regulate medical treatments for minors regarding gender identity. As it progresses through the legislative process, it will likely continue to generate discussion and debate among stakeholders, including healthcare professionals, families, and advocacy groups.

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

Sign in to ask a question.