Grand Canyon Times

Senate Republicans in Arizona have passed legislation aimed at expanding civil liabilities for healthcare professionals involved in gender transition procedures for minors. The bill, known as SB 1586, was sponsored by Senate Majority Leader Janae Shamp and passed with support solely from Republican senators. It now moves to the House for further consideration.

The proposed legislation seeks to impose civil liability on healthcare providers who perform gender transition procedures on minors, holding them accountable for any future detransition costs incurred by the patient up to the age of 26. "We have heard many tragic stories about young boys and girls who have submitted to life-altering procedures to change their gender – only to experience severe repercussions later on when they mature," said Majority Leader Shamp.

Shamp emphasized that while current Arizona law already restricts such procedures, additional measures are necessary to deter illegal operations. "Republicans again have shown their willingness to do what is necessary to stop the harmful mutilation of our children's bodies," she stated. The bill also allows affected individuals or their legal guardians to pursue civil lawsuits related to previous gender transition procedures and any resulting injuries.

Additionally, SB 1586 prohibits healthcare professionals from seeking contractual waivers of liability concerning these procedures. If enacted into law, it would hold physicians strictly liable for associated costs if a minor later decides to undergo detransitioning.