Texas has taken legal action against Dr. May Lau, a physician in Dallas, over allegations that she provided gender-affirming care to minors, marking a significant move to enforce state laws that restrict such treatments.
The lawsuit, announced by Republican Attorney General Ken Paxton, accuses Dr. Lau of administering hormones to over 20 minors, which violates a Texas law that prohibits transgender individuals under 18 from accessing hormone therapies and transition surgeries. This enforcement effort highlights a broader trend among Republican-led states to limit access to gender-affirming care for youth.
This lawsuit is notable as it represents the first time Texas has attempted to enforce its ban on gender-affirming care. Harper Seldin, a staff attorney with the ACLU’s LGBTQ & HIV Project, indicated that he was not aware of similar enforcement efforts in other states.
Filed in Collin County, Texas, this legal action underscores the state’s commitment to enforcing the controversial law signed by Governor Greg Abbott, which seeks to target healthcare providers who assist transgender minors.
Texas Files Lawsuit Against Doctor for Alleged Violations of Gender-Affirming Care Ban for Minors
The Texas law specifically restricts access to hormone therapies and puberty blockers for minors, although surgeries for children are infrequently performed. Seldin voiced concerns that this lawsuit exemplifies government interference in medical decision-making.
He emphasized that healthcare providers should not fear repercussions from the state when making medical decisions that they believe are in the best interest of their patients. This concern reflects a growing anxiety among medical professionals regarding the implications of such legal actions on their practice.
Dr. Lau, who is also an associate professor at UT Southwestern Medical Center, faces serious allegations, including claims of falsifying medical records and prescriptions. The lawsuit seeks an injunction against her practice, along with potential fines that could reach $10,000 per violation.
While Dr. Lau and UT Southwestern did not provide immediate comments on the lawsuit, Children’s Health stated that it adheres to all state healthcare laws. The accusations against Dr. Lau highlight the scrutiny healthcare providers are under as Texas implements its new restrictions.
As this lawsuit unfolds, it is set against the broader national conversation about gender-affirming care for minors. At least 26 states have enacted similar laws, many of which face ongoing legal challenges. Federal courts have ruled against bans in states like Arkansas and Florida, declaring them unconstitutional, while other states continue to navigate their own restrictions.
With elections approaching, Republican candidates are leveraging these issues to galvanize their supporters, as seen in Sen. Ted Cruz’s critiques of his opponent regarding transgender rights. The developments surrounding this case will likely impact the future of healthcare access for transgender youth in Texas and across the country.
