Senior Judge Robert Hinkle struck down a Florida law on Tuesday that restricted gender-affirming care for minors and limited treatments for transgender adults. The law, signed by Governor Ron DeSantis in 2023, prevented transgender minors from accessing puberty blockers and hormonal treatments, even with parental consent. It also required transgender adults to obtain treatment solely from physicians and banned online medical consultations for this care.
In a 105-page decision, Hinkle argued the law violated constitutional rights, allowing that transgender individuals are entitled to necessary medical treatment. The ruling drew criticism from Governor DeSantis' office, declaring an intent to appeal and defending the legislation as a protective measure for children.
Plaintiffs in the lawsuit, including transgender individuals and their families, welcomed the ruling. Transgender adult Lucien Hamel and a mother identified as Jane Doe expressed relief, stating the law targeted transgender people and interfered with private medical decisions.
The decision arrives amidst ongoing debates, with numerous states enacting similar restrictions. Arkansas' ban has also been ruled unconstitutional, awaiting appeal, while Tennessee's ban faces potential intervention by the U.S. Supreme Court.