OKLAHOMA CITY – Governor Kevin Stitt signed SB 613 into law banning all irreversible gender transition surgeries and hormone therapies for children under the age of 18.
“Last year, I called for a statewide ban on all irreversible gender transition surgeries and hormone therapies on minors, so I am thrilled to sign this into law today and protect our kids,” said Governor Stitt in a release. “We cannot turn a blind eye to what’s happening across our nation, and as governor, I am proud to stand up for what’s right and ban life-altering transition surgeries on children in the state of Oklahoma.”
Specifically, SB 613 bans the use of any medications or surgical procedures for the purpose of gender transition. Penalties for violation include felony charges, license revocation, and civil actions which can be filed by a parent or guardian.
In October 2022, Governor Stitt called for a statewide ban on gender transition surgeries and hormone therapies after blocking funding to the Oklahoma Children’s Hospital at OU Health.
At least 16 states have now enacted laws restricting or banning gender-affirming care for minors: Alabama, Arkansas, Arizona, Georgia, Idaho, Indiana, Iowa, Kentucky, Mississippi, Montana, North Dakota, Oklahoma, Tennessee, Utah, South Dakota, and West Virginia. Federal judges have blocked the enforcement of laws in Alabama and Arkansas, and nearly two dozen states are considering bills this year to restrict or ban care.
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