Overview
- In a 6–3 decision authored by Chief Justice John Roberts, the court applied rational basis review and ruled the Tennessee law does not violate the Equal Protection Clause
- Justice Amy Coney Barrett’s concurrence signals approval for states to extend restrictions beyond minors to adult transgender care
- Legal scholars such as Leah Litman argue the opinion is inconsistent and driven by partisan politics rather than neutral jurisprudence
- Over two dozen states already bar gender-affirming treatments for minors and are poised to cite this ruling to defend or enact similar measures
- Transgender advocates and lawmakers including Rep. Sarah McBride are pressing Congress to pass federal legislation that guarantees LGBTQ rights nationwide