Democrats in Maine have reintroduced a bill that would limit parental involvement in decisions around their children’s healthcare procedures and gender transitions.
The bill is similar to one unanimously defeated previously and would prevent schools and medical providers from contacting parents or requiring their consent for things like abortions, puberty blockers or cross-sex hormones for their minor children.
It aims to protect providers from legal actions from other states and would shield any minor in Maine from parental influence over such medical care.
"That is absolutely an assault, not just on parental rights, but on the democratic process itself."
Maine Republicans blast Democrats for keeping the revamped Transgender Trafficking bill a secret from the public until its public hearing day. pic.twitter.com/qlp0VeVU3T
— The Maine Wire (@TheMaineWire) March 11, 2024
Republican attorneys general from other states warned the bill is unconstitutional in removing parental rights.
“If Maine pursues LD 227’s constitutionally defective approach, we will vigorously avail ourselves of every recourse our Constitution provides,” the AGs wrote.
Supporters argue it protects transgender healthcare, but critics say it enables grooming and summarily cancels parental authority.
“I think we’re seeing across the country really horrible attacks on transgender people and on health care, which means that parents can’t get the health care they need for their children—which means providers are worried they’re not able to practice their craft,” GLBTQ Legal Advocates and Defenders (GLAD) director of family advocacy Patience Crozier said.
“I think, in Maine, where reproductive and transgender health care is legal, this bill is really important to state the values of Maine and make sure that we’re protecting our providers from those attacks from other states.”
One parent recounted her daughter being groomed by a school counselor into believing she was transgender without notice.
The Democrats are accused of surreptitiously introducing the bill through a draft to avoid scrutiny before committee consideration.
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