The Montrose Center expresses deep disappointment in today’s Texas Supreme Court ruling that upholds the state’s ban on gender-affirming care for transgender minors. This decision, which allows Senate Bill 14 to remain in effect, considerably impacts the health and well-being of transgender youth across Texas.

“Today’s ruling is a significant setback for young transgender people and their families living in Texas who seek appropriate medical care to affirm their individual gender identity,” said Avery Belyeu, CEO of the Montrose Center. “The Montrose Center firmly believes medical decisions should be between individuals, their families, and their medical providers. We believe in medical science, which supports gender-affirming care as it has proven to offer substantial mental health benefits, such as decreasing suicidal ideation.” 

The court’s 8-1 decision upholds a law that prohibits doctors from prescribing puberty blockers and hormone therapy to transgender minors, treatments that major medical organizations recognize as standard care for gender dysphoria. This ruling comes despite challenges from parents, doctors, and advocacy groups who argued the law violates parents’ rights to make medical decisions for their children.

Research indicates that such restrictions negatively affect youth seeking gender-affirming care, potentially leading to delayed treatment, inability to access care, and worse mental health outcomes. The Montrose Center is concerned about the long-term impacts of this decision on the transgender community in Texas. 

“We stand with queer youth and their families who are affected by this decision, and we are ready to support you,” Ms. Belyeu added. “Our youth services team and our licensed mental health therapists can help families through this difficult time.” 

The Montrose Center remains committed to advocating for the rights and well-being of LGBTQIA+ individuals in Houston and throughout Texas. The Center’s crisis helpline is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week at 713-529-3211. The Trevor Project also offers assistance for queer youth and can be reached by phone, text and chat at www.thetrevorproject.org. The National Suicide and Crisis Lifeline can be called by dialing 988. 

“To our trans youth, I want to say this: We see you. We love you. We are here for you,” Ms. Belyeu concluded.