A Montana court ruled against the state's ban on gender-affirming care for transgender minors, stating it violated constitutional rights. The Fourth Judicial District Court issued a permanent injunction regarding the enforcement of the ban, which was enacted in 2023. Judge Jason Marks highlighted that the ban reflected political and ideological interests aimed at obstructing transgender expression rather than safeguarding minors' welfare. Medical associations unanimously support the treatments affected by the ban. The ruling underscores serious concerns regarding access to care and the implications for transgender youth's mental health amidst rising political opposition.
The Court is forced to conclude that the State's interest is actually a political and ideological one: ensuring minors in Montana are never provided treatment.
The ban violates the rights to privacy and free speech guaranteed by the Montana Constitution, and it amounts to discrimination based on viewpoint.
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