Senator Roger Marshall, a Republican from Kansas and former medical doctor, is set to introduce a new bill aimed at banning gender-related medical procedures on minors. The legislation, known as the Safeguarding the Overall Protection (STOP) of Minors Act, seeks to prohibit youth gender transition treatments and 'castration procedures' by restricting the use of interstate commerce for such practices.
Senator Marshall emphasized that the bill is a response to what he views as a dangerous transgender agenda, labeling it as child abuse. The STOP Act would impose penalties on professionals who provide transgender mutilation services and treatments to minors, with a minimum civil penalty of $100,000.
The bill also includes provisions to assist individuals who wish to detransition, or discontinue the gender transition process. Senator Marshall expressed his intention to collaborate with President Trump, who has indicated support for limiting 'gender-affirming' care for minors.
During a panel discussion led by the American Principles Project, Senator Marshall and other lawmakers highlighted the GOP's increased focus on legislation against transgender medical procedures for minors. On the opposing side, some lawmakers advocate for procedures like hormone replacement therapy and laser hair removal for minors.
In a separate development, 164 lawmakers, including senators and representatives, filed an amicus brief in support of transgender youth against a ban in Tennessee that prevents minors from accessing puberty blockers. The Supreme Court is scheduled to hear arguments on the matter and make a decision regarding the ban.
