Hawley Introduces Bill To Allow Lawsuits Against Doctors Who Perform Trans Procedures On Kids

Senator Josh Hawley (R-MO) has introduced the “Protecting Our Kids from Child Abuse Act,” a bill that would enable individuals who underwent gender transition procedures as minors to file lawsuits against the medical professionals and institutions responsible for their treatment. This legislative move aligns with President Donald Trump’s recent executive order prohibiting federal funding for hospitals that conduct such procedures.

Key Provisions of the Bill:

• Legal Recourse: The proposed legislation allows individuals to sue pediatric gender clinics, doctors, and associated entities that administered cross-sex hormones or performed gender transition surgeries during their youth.
• Statute of Limitations: Affected individuals would have the right to initiate legal action up to 30 years after reaching the age of 18.
• Financial Penalties: The bill provides for both punitive and compensatory damages against liable parties.
• Funding Restrictions: It seeks to prohibit federal funding for pediatric gender clinics and universities that operate such facilities or perform gender transition procedures on minors.

Senator Hawley emphasized the necessity of the bill, stating, “Our children should no longer suffer from irreversible and dangerous child mutilation procedures, which the Biden administration enabled and promoted.” He expressed support for President Trump’s executive action and a commitment to advancing protective legislation.

The bill’s introduction follows President Trump’s executive order directing federal agencies to cease funding and support for gender transition procedures on children. The order mandates that the Attorney General collaborate with Congress to establish legal avenues for individuals to seek redress against entities involved in such medical interventions.

Medical interventions targeted by this legislation include the administration of puberty blockers, cross-sex hormones, and surgeries such as mastectomies and genital alterations. Critics of these procedures highlight potential risks, including cardiovascular issues, impaired bone development, and fertility complications.