Florida Moves To Ban All Transgender Healthcare

Miami’s NBC News affiliate reports:

Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis’ administration Thursday asked the state board regulating doctors to essentially ban transition-related care for transgender minors, according to a letter obtained by NBC News.

The state Health Department made the request hours after another state agency issued a 46-page report to justify banning Medicaid coverage for transgender people of any age who want puberty blockers, hormone therapies or gender-assignment surgery.

The two-pronged effort, which ensures DeSantis can act quickly and without the need for legislative approval, drew instant opposition from activists and medical professionals.

Axios reports:

State surgeon general Joseph Ladapo asked the state board regulating doctors to essentially ban transition-related care for transgender minors.

Gender-affirming care is standard, accepted medical treatment and has been for years, endorsed by all the major medical organizations including the American Medical Association and American Psychiatric Association.

Last month, the Florida Department of Health advised doctors to ignore federal guidance and stop assisting children and teens with gender transitions. Ending care and coverage for trans people in Florida would likely violate the Affordable Care Act’s discrimination protections.

Ladapo, you will recall, is affiliated with loony tune QAnon anti-vax leader Dr. Demon Semen.