What is the bill

This bill would allow some 16 and 17-year-old Mainers who have been diagnosed with gender dysphoria to receive nonsurgical, medically necessary, gender-affirming hormone therapy even if they have parents who would attempt to deny them this care.

Why it matters

A majority of LGBTQ young people don’t live in affirming homes. 41% have considered suicide and far too many have harmed themselves. This law will allow a small group of transgender minors diagnosed with gender dysphoria who are able to navigate the health care system even with their parents’ opposition to gain needed treatment. It will help them to avoid fully experiencing irrevocable changes from going through the puberty of the gender opposite their own.

What happened

The bill passed in both the House and the Senate and was signed into law by Gov. Janet Mills.

Scored Roll Call

House Roll Call #347. Senate Roll Call #465