TX
Texas Senate Bill SB23

Texas 2021 - 87th 2nd C.S.

Texas Senate Bill SB23

Caption

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

Impact

The implementation of SB23 would directly affect mental health practice related to gender identity in the state. By restricting the type of therapy allowed, the bill aims to enforce a stringent approach towards gender dysphoria treatment in minors. Governmental entities would be prohibited from restricting mental health providers from offering services aligned with a child's biological sex. This could lead to significant implications for how professionals navigate treatment modalities for transgender youth and those experiencing gender dysphoria.

Summary

Senate Bill 23 proposes amendments to the Health and Safety Code regarding the provision of gender-affirming therapy and counseling for minors. The bill specifically prohibits licensed mental health providers from delivering therapy aimed at affirming a gender that is inconsistent with a child's biological sex. The definitions section clarifies that 'children' refers to individuals under 18 years of age and establishes conditions under which treatment may or may not occur.

Contention

This bill has sparked considerable debate among legislators, mental health professionals, and advocacy groups. Proponents argue that it protects children from potentially harmful treatments that may not align with their biological sex and could lead to confusion during critical stages of development. Opponents contend that such regulations can restrict access to appropriate and necessary care for those individuals seeking affirmation and support for their gender identity, claiming that the bill undermines the expertise of mental health professionals in making individualized treatment decisions.

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.