by AUSTIN, Texas — Texas has become the most populous state to ban gender-affirming care for minors after Gov. Greg Abbott signed it into law Friday.
Texas joined at least 18 other states that have enacted similar bans.
Every major medical organization, including the American Medical Association, has opposed the bans and supported youth care when properly managed. Lawsuits have been filed in several states where bans have been enacted this year.
Last year, Abbott became the first governor to order an investigation of families receiving care. A Texas judge later halted the investigations.
The GOP-controlled Legislature sent the bill to Abbott last month. Republicans in the Senate took the final vote over the objections of Democrats, who used parliamentary maneuvering to delay passage but were unable to completely derail it.
Transgender rights activists have disrupted the Texas House with protests from the chamber gallery, prompting state police to force protesters out of the building.
