Concord Republicans advance bill banning puberty blockers for minors

Republican lawmakers in Concord are advancing a bill that would ban puberty blockers for transgender minors. The bill aims to restrict access to this medical treatment for children seeking gender transition. State Rep. Lisa Mazur, a supporter of the bill, stated, "Wait until you're 18," emphasizing that the legislation is specifically for minors. The bill recently passed through a committee with a party-line vote and is now heading for a vote in the House. Opponents of the bill argue it intrudes on the doctor-patient relationship and targets a vulnerable group. State Rep. William Palmer, a Democrat, pointed out that many medical treatments have come and gone in practice but were never targeted by legislation. Some Democratic lawmakers express concerns that this bill is just the beginning. State Rep. Tim Hartnett warned that it may lead to further restrictions against transgender individuals. Republicans defend their position by stating the bill simply requires that minors wait until they are 18 for such treatments. They reject claims of discrimination, arguing that it's similar to other age-related restrictions, such as driving or marriage.