South Carolina Senate Passes Bill Banning Gender-Affirming Care for Minors

The legislation prohibits gender-transition surgeries and hormone treatments for individuals under 18, amid significant debate and opposition.

The South Carolina Senate approved the ban with a vote of 27-8, including support from all present Republicans and one Democrat.
The bill also mandates school officials to inform parents if a child uses a name or pronouns inconsistent with their sex assigned at birth.
Amendments allow mental health counselors to discuss banned treatments and prescribe puberty blockers under specific conditions.
Opponents argue the bill infringes on medical freedom and parental rights, emphasizing the safety of the treatments.
If signed into law, South Carolina will become the 25th state to restrict or ban gender-affirming care for minors.