A recent lawsuit filed in Texas has sparked attention as the state takes aim at a Dallas physician, Dr. May Lau. Republican Attorney General Ken Paxton claims that Dr. Lau provided hormone therapies to over 20 minors, violating a state ban on gender-affirming care for youth under 18. This lawsuit, announced on Thursday, marks Texas's first attempt to enforce the law, which was implemented last year.

The ban restricts transgender minors from accessing hormone therapies, puberty blockers, and transition surgeries. However, surgical procedures for minors are quite rare. Harper Seldin, an ACLU staff attorney, described the lawsuit as a "predictable and terrifying result" of the law. He emphasized that doctors should not fear government interference when providing medical care based on their professional judgment.

Lau is an associate professor at UT Southwestern Medical Center in Dallas. The lawsuit alleges that she falsified medical records to conceal the purpose of testosterone prescriptions. Paxton seeks an injunction against Dr. Lau and fines of up to $10,000 per violation. Representatives from UT Southwestern and Children's Health have not yet responded to requests for comment.

Across the U.S., at least 26 states have adopted similar restrictions. Court rulings in Arkansas and Florida have deemed such bans unconstitutional, although the Florida ruling is currently stayed by a federal appeals court. Montana and New Hampshire also face legal challenges against their restrictions.

The lawsuit comes amidst a contentious election season where Republicans have used support for gender-affirming health care as a political attack. Republican Sen. Ted Cruz has criticized his Democratic challenger, US Rep. Colin Allred, for backing transgender rights.

Texas Takes Action Against Doctor for Providing Gender-Affirming Care

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