Alberta Appeals Court Block on Youth Trans Care Ban

An Alberta court granted an injunction temporarily blocking the enforcement of Bill 26, which would prohibit doctors from providing gender-affirming care—including puberty blockers and hormone therapy—to individuals under 16. Justice Allison Kuntz ruled that allowing the law to proceed could cause irreparable harm to gender-diverse youth by reinforcing discrimination and denying necessary medical care. LGBTQ2 advocacy groups and families celebrated the decision as a historic victory, citing violations of constitutional rights, including security of the person and equality. Premier Danielle Smith announced the Alberta government's intention to appeal the injunction, maintaining that the law is intended to ensure care is safe and evidence-based. The court's decision brings relief to families concerned about losing access to essential health services. A final ruling on the law's constitutionality may take years, highlighting ongoing debates over government involvement in transgender health care.