Golden State Today

California Attorney General Rob Bonta, along with 21 other attorneys general, has filed an amicus brief in support of a ruling blocking Idaho's ban on gender-affirming care for transgender youth. The brief supports the plaintiffs in Poe v. Labrador, who are fighting against Idaho's House Bill 71 that criminalizes medical treatment for transgender minors seeking gender-affirming care.

"Blocking access to gender-affirming care only serves to further marginalize vulnerable communities and put their lives at risk," said Attorney General Bonta. He emphasized the importance of gender-affirming care for the health and well-being of transgender youth, urging the Ninth Circuit to uphold the district court's decision.

The amicus brief argues that Idaho's ban on gender-affirming care violates equal protection and discriminates against transgender youth. It highlights the detrimental impact of denying medically necessary care to transgender individuals, pointing out the higher risks of distress, anxiety, depression, and suicide among this population.

Idaho's HB 71, enacted in April 2023, prohibits transgender youth from accessing crucial medical treatments like hormone therapy and puberty blockers. Medical providers who violate this law face severe penalties, including up to 10 years in prison.

Attorney General Bonta's commitment to protecting the health care rights of all individuals is evident through his involvement in various cases supporting transgender rights. He has led coalitions in opposing similar laws in Oklahoma, Indiana, Kentucky, Tennessee, and other states.

Joining Attorney General Bonta in filing the amicus brief are attorneys general from Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Hawaii, Illinois, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Nevada, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Washington, Wisconsin, and the District of Columbia.

The amicus brief can be accessed for further information on the coalition's arguments against Idaho's ban on gender-affirming care for transgender youth.