Florida Board of Medicine

U.S. District Judge Robert Hinkle said he would try to deliver an opinion “as quick as I can” on law and rules prohibiting the use of puberty blockers and hormone therapy to treat children for gender dysphoria.

Testimony from a St. Johns County mother began the multiday trial by testifying that it would be “devastating” if her child could not get gender-affirming treatment.

These six new forms for minors and adults go over possible risks of treatment.

The rules are related to providing treatments such as puberty blockers and hormone-replacement therapy to transgender children and adults, carrying out part of a new law championed by Gov. DeSantis.

Physicians will be able to renew orders for puberty blockers and hormone therapy children and adults as long as no changes are made to the prescriptions. The Board of Medicine previously approved the rule.

The bill now will go to the House, where it is expected to pass.

The House version of the proposal would extend the ban to children already receiving treatments. It would also stop insurance companies from covering gender-affirming surgeries for transgender adults.

Florida doctors could lose their medical licenses if they order puberty blockers, hormone therapy or surgery for minors diagnosed with gender dysphoria, under a Florida Board of Medicine rule that took effect.

The bill, among other things, would make it a felony for doctors or other health-care professionals to order puberty blockers, hormone treatment or surgery for transgender minors.

They are the latest in a series of moves by lawmakers and Gov. Ron DeSantis’ administration aimed at transgender people.

Puberty blockers and hormone replacement therapy will be banned for minors, even during clinical trails.

There are procedural steps two state medical boards have to complete before the rules are finalized. But there have already been reports of disruptions to care, and some transgender youth and their families say the stress is traumatizing.