Oregon Stands Firm on Gender-Affirming Care Following Supreme Court Decision
EUGENE, Ore. — In a significant Supreme Court ruling that upheld Tennessee’s ban on gender-affirming care for minors, Oregon remains steadfast in its commitment to protecting access to such healthcare. While 27 states have enacted similar restrictions, Oregon’s laws uniquely empower minors aged 15 and older to consent to medical treatment, including hormone therapy and some surgical procedures, without needing parental approval.
Under recent legislation, House Bill 2002, Oregon solidified its coverage for "medically-necessary" gender-affirming care across public and private insurance plans. In a response to the Supreme Court’s decision, Oregon Attorney General Dan Rayfield emphasized the state’s dedication to ensuring dignity and respect for all individuals, regardless of their gender identity.
However, reactions within the state reveal a divide. Senate Republicans pointed to the Supreme Court ruling as a reflection of the beliefs held by 60% of Oregonians, who argue that children should be shielded from irreversible medical decisions they may not fully understand. A recent poll by DHM Research indicated that while almost 80% of Oregonians support anti-discrimination protections for transgender individuals, 60% believe it should be illegal to provide minors with gender-affirming medical care.
In light of the ruling, advocacy group Basic Rights Oregon has initiated a "Week of Resilience," rallying support for the trans community. They are promoting the "Equal Rights for All" ballot measure, aiming to enshrine protections for gender-affirming care, abortion, IVF, and same-sex marriage within the Oregon Constitution, thus safeguarding these rights against future legislative changes.
As the national debate continues, Oregon’s commitment to protecting gender-affirming care stands in contrast to the actions of many other states, advocating for inclusivity amid changing legal landscapes.
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