Prohibits gender transition procedures for all minors, uses of public funds for that purpose, discipline for health care providers for providing same, a thirty (30) year statute of limitation, right to a civil action for damages.
Impact
If enacted, HB 7884 will significantly amend the current healthcare and safety regulations in Rhode Island by restricting access to gender transition medical services for minors. It would deem any referral or provision of such medical services as unprofessional conduct, leading to possible disciplinary actions against healthcare providers. The bill argues that existing medical practices are being conducted without sufficient evidence of long-term benefits, making this legislative measure a reaction to ongoing debates about the appropriateness and ethics of gender transition for minors. Moreover, the bill would specifically affect how insurance coverages related to these procedures are handled in the state.
Summary
House Bill 7884, known as the 'Rhode Island's Children Deserve Help Not Harm Act', aims to prohibit any form of gender transition procedures for individuals under the age of eighteen. This legislation also restricts the use of public funds to support such procedures and imposes penalties on healthcare providers who engage in these practices. It emphasizes a compelling government interest in safeguarding the health and safety of minors, citing concerns that the majority of children experiencing gender dysphoria will reconcile with their biological sex as they mature. The bill includes provisions that allow minors to pursue civil action for damages resulting from violations of these laws, with a statute of limitations extending up to thirty years after reaching adulthood.
Contention
The passage of HB 7884 is anticipated to spark intense discussions about the rights of minors regarding gender identity and health care choices. Supporters argue that this legislation is necessary to protect vulnerable youth from potentially life-altering decisions that might not reflect their eventual identity. Critics, however, see the bill as an infringement on personal liberties and argue that it overlooks the complexities of gender dysphoria and the needs of transgender youth. The tension around public funding, mental health implications, and healthcare provider responsibilities will likely be focal points of contention as the bill is discussed and potentially voted on.
House Resolution Congratulating Providence Police Chief Hugh T. Clements Jr., On Being Appointed To Direct The Federal Government’s Community Policing Programs And Thanking Him For More Than Thirty-seven Years Of Distinguished Public Service To The Citizens Of Providence And The State Of Rhode Island
Prohibits gender transition procedures for all minors, uses of public funds, discipline for health care providers, a 30 year statute of limitation, after reaching age of majority, and right to a civil action for damages.
Prohibits gender transition procedures for all minors, uses of public funds for that purpose, discipline for health care providers for providing same, a thirty (30) year statute of limitation, right to a civil action for damages.
Health care; creating the Oklahoma Save Adolescents from Experimentation (SAFE) Act; prohibiting gender transition procedures; providing for administrative and civil enforcement. Emergency.
Health care; creating the Oklahoma Save Adolescents from Experimentation (SAFE) Act; prohibiting gender transition procedures; providing for administrative and civil enforcement. Emergency.