Texas 2021 - 87th 1st C.S.

Texas Senate Bill SB66

Caption

Relating to the provision of certain gender-affirming therapy and counseling to children.

Impact

SB66 mandates that governmental entities cannot restrict mental health providers from offering therapy aimed at affirming a child's gender that aligns with their biological sex. This provision creates a framework that seeks to delineate acceptable therapeutic practices concerning minors experiencing identity issues. As a result, mental health providers may face legal implications if they perform actions deemed inconsistent with the bill's provisions, potentially affecting how practitioners approach treatment plans for those in this demographic.

Summary

Senate Bill 66 (SB66) addresses the provision of gender-affirming therapy and counseling for minors by stipulating specific guidelines related to the treatment of gender dysphoria. According to the bill, mental health providers are prohibited from offering therapy to affirm a gender that is inconsistent with a child's biological sex, based on defined sex characteristics. This legislative move comes as part of a broader discourse surrounding mental health practices for children and the state's role in regulating these services.

Contention

The implications of SB66 have led to significant debate. Proponents argue that the legislation helps to protect children's welfare by ensuring that therapies align with their biological identities. Opponents, however, see this as a restriction on access to necessary care for those experiencing gender dysphoria. This division highlights the evolving discussions surrounding gender identity, mental health treatment for children, and the extent of state control in personal health matters.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

TX SB14

Relating to prohibitions on the provision to certain children of procedures and treatments for gender transitioning, gender reassignment, or gender dysphoria and on the use of public money or public assistance to provide those procedures and treatments.

TX HB1686

Relating to prohibitions on the provision to certain children of procedures and treatments for gender transitioning, gender reassignment, or gender dysphoria and on the use of public money or public assistance to provide those procedures and treatments.

TX SB625

Relating to prohibitions on the provision to certain children of procedures and treatments for gender transitioning, gender reassignment, or gender dysphoria and on the use of public money or public assistance to provide those procedures and treatments.

TX HB1532

Relating to professional liability insurance coverage for and prohibitions on the provision to certain children of procedures and treatments for gender transitioning, gender reassignment, or gender dysphoria and to the abuse of a child.

TX HB41

Relating to professional liability insurance coverage for and prohibitions on the provision to certain children of procedures and treatments for gender transitioning, gender reassignment, or gender dysphoria.

TX HB122

Relating to professional liability insurance coverage for and prohibitions on providing to certain children procedures and treatments for gender transitioning, gender reassignment, or gender dysphoria; creating a criminal offense.

TX HB1752

Relating to liability for the provision to certain children of procedures and treatments for gender transitioning, gender reassignment, or gender dysphoria; providing a civil penalty.

TX SB250

Relating to the provision of and professional liability insurance coverage for gender transitioning or gender reassignment medical procedures and treatments for certain children.

TX HB21

Relating to civil liability for the sterilization, castration, or genital mutilation of children.

TX HB4754

Relating to health benefit plan coverage for and prohibitions on gender transitioning procedures and treatments provided to certain individuals; creating a criminal offense.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.