SB 14, which would ban minors in Texas from getting puberty blockers and hormone treatments, passed the state Senate on Wednesday.
The bill goes to Gov. Greg Abbott’s desk and would take effect September 1 if he signs it.
The Senate favored the legislation in a 19-12 vote. The House passed the bill on Monday.
State Sen. Donna Campbell (R-New Braunfels) wrote the bill, saying she disputes the science behind “transgender transition.” Campbell and other supporters say minors who have treatments and surgeries might later regret doing so.
“We are the Legislature — our job is to protect people,” state Sen. Bob Hall (R-Edgewood) said, according to the Texas Tribune. “We protect children against lots of things. We don’t let them smoke. We don’t let them drink. We don’t let them buy lottery cards. … And so we are doing the right thing.”
Abbott’s office declined to comment on the bill this week.
Democrats fought the legislation in the House and Senate.
“The bill in front of us today is banning health care,” said state Rep. Mary González (D-Clint). “Politics shouldn’t determine health care, period.”
At least 17 states have enacted bans or restrictions on medical treatments for children, The Associated Press reported Thursday.
