A federal judge has invalidated a 2023 Florida law that severely curtailed gender-affirming care for transgender minors and adults, declaring it unconstitutional. Senior Judge Robert Hinkle’s ruling rebuffed the state’s attempts to restrict medical treatment for transgender individuals, emphasizing their constitutional right to legitimate healthcare.
The law, signed by Republican Governor Ron DeSantis, prohibited transgender minors from accessing puberty blockers and hormonal treatments, and limited treatment options for transgender adults. Judge Hinkle deemed these provisions unconstitutional, citing violations of transgender individuals’ rights to necessary medical care.
Hinkle emphasized that transgender people are entitled to legitimate treatment, drawing parallels between opposition to gender-affirming care and past discrimination against minorities and women. He criticized attempts to justify discrimination based on religious beliefs, asserting that such discrimination is unconstitutional.
Governor DeSantis’s office condemned the ruling, pledging to appeal. However, plaintiffs and advocates hailed the decision as a victory for transgender rights and healthcare access. Transgender adults and parents of transgender children expressed relief, emphasizing the importance of healthcare autonomy and protection from discriminatory laws.
Florida’s law was part of a broader trend of states enacting restrictions on gender-affirming care for minors. Judge Hinkle’s decision follows similar rulings in other states, highlighting ongoing legal battles over transgender rights across the country.