1. United States
2. Mo.
3. Letter

I am writing to express my grave concerns over HB3399, which seeks to criminalize gender-affirming healthcare for transgender people. This cruel legislation actively endangers the lives and wellbeing of vulnerable young people by denying them access to medically-necessary, evidence-based care. It intrudes on the rights of parents to make critical healthcare decisions for their children in consultation with medical professionals. HB3399 perpetuates discrimination against transgender individuals and flies in the face of recommendations from major medical associations. Gender-affirming care has been shown to significantly improve mental health outcomes and reduce suicidality among transgender people. Forcibly delaying social and medical transition increases rates of depression, anxiety, and self-harm for these people. We should be supporting and embracing transgender people, not depriving them of vital healthcare access. I urge you to reject this draconian piece of legislation that undermines established medical guidelines and devalues the bodily autonomy of trans people. No one should be denied critical care or have their identity invalidated by the government. Please stand up for the rights and wellbeing of all Texans by voting no on HB3399.