SW News: The Louisiana House of Representatives in the United States approved a bill on Tuesday that bans realignment therapies for gender dysphoric minors. House Bill 463 was proposed by Republican Representative Gabe Firment and passed the House with 71 votes in favor and 24 against. Several Democratic lawmakers also supported the bill.

The proposed legislation makes it illegal for medical professionals to use hormone treatments, gender reassignment surgery, or puberty blockers on patients under 18. The bill, which also establishes penalties for health professionals, who provide such care, will now advance to the Republican-controlled Senate.

Democratic governor John Bel Edwards has not announced if he will veto the law. However, he has noted that the recent wave of anti-homosexual legislation will negatively affect the already high suicide rate of gender-confused Louisianians. However, the bill passed the House with enough votes to withstand a potential veto.

The bill's supporters assert that it will shield kids from potentially life-changing medical operations until they are "mature enough" to make such important decisions. Opponents contend that sex reassignment therapy, endorsed by a wide range of important medical organizations, can save the life of a person experiencing gender dysphoria.

Democrats also claimed that the GOP's drive for parental rights legislation contradicts the package. Until they become 18, children in Louisiana must have their parent's consent before receiving any gender-realigning medical care.

In a year in which homosexual campaigners claim that conservative lawmakers are targeting their rights, Louisiana is the latest American state to explore prohibiting sex reassignment medical care for kids.

At least 16 states have passed legislation limiting or outlawing the care of adolescents undergoing sex reassignment. Additionally, Florida, Missouri, and Texas have enacted laws or administrative decisions that forbid or restrict the practice. Meanwhile, Missouri is the only one that also limits the treatments for adults, which is currently blocked by a judge.