11th Circuit Allows Florida Transgender Health Ban

The 11th Circuit Court of Appeals has allowed Florida's ban on gender-affirming care for minors to take effect, pending an appeal of a previous ruling that blocked the law. The 2-1 decision permits the enforcement of SB 254, which prohibits sex-reassignment procedures for those under 18 and imposes restrictions on treatment for adults. Dissenting Judge Wilson argued that the law discriminates against transgender individuals, causing unnecessary suffering. The ruling has drawn criticism from advocacy groups, who expressed disappointment and concern over the denial of essential medical care to transgender minors. Florida's legal team maintains that the state can regulate medical care while respecting individuals' rights to pursue a transgender identity. This ruling reflects a broader trend, as at least 26 states have enacted similar restrictions on gender-affirming care for minors.