South Carolina Enacts Law Banning Gender-Affirming Care for Minors

Governor McMaster's 'Help Not Harm' bill restricts medical treatments for transgender youth, drawing sharp criticism and legal challenges.

The new law prohibits puberty blockers, hormone treatments, and gender-transition surgeries for individuals under 18.
Healthcare providers who violate the law may face license revocation, civil lawsuits, and criminal charges.
The legislation also mandates schools to inform parents if a child requests to use a different name or pronouns.
Critics argue the law endangers transgender youth and contradicts medical guidelines from major health organizations.
South Carolina joins 24 other states with similar restrictions, with ongoing legal battles expected.