Nebraska Lawmakers confronted the highly controversial transgender healthcare bill for a second round of scheduled debate Thursday.
LB 574, if passed would adopt the Let Them Grow Act into Nebraska law. The Let Them Grow Act would prohibit the performance of what is often referred to as gender affirming heath care for patients under the age of 19. Procedures like, for example, hormone therapy or genital/breast surgery.
The bill was introduced by Sen. Kathleen Kauth of Omaha. In late March, the bill advanced for a second round of debate. LB 574 has been arguably the most significant bill lawmakers have handled this legislative session, since it spurred the multi-week filibuster led by Sen. Michaela Cavanaugh of Omaha.
Supporters of the bill say these services are too dangerous to be performed on minors.
“LB574 is only about protecting kids. We are protecting them from experimental, irreversible medications and surgeries.” said Sen. Kathleen Kauth. “That’s what were asking them with this bill. Wait. Give yourself time, let you brain develop. Kids cant make decisions like this.”
Opponents have levied numerous objections.
Senator John Cavanaugh of Omaha, “It denials access to medical care because the outcome of that medical care is one that some people disagree with… and that is not the basis for a law… and that is the nature of discrimination.”
Sen. George Dungan of Lincoln, ” What the courts have found is that this is not a compelling governmental interest…Not liking the outcome of medical procedures does not rise to the level of a compelling governmental interest…and therefore it was found to be unconstitutional under that.”
How this issue intersects with youth suicide rates was also discussed.
Senator Brad Von Gillern of Elkorn, “Opponents of 574 say that the suicide rate in kids is up because gender affirmation is being withheld from them. I postulate that the suicide rate is increased because their lives have been filled with question marks.”
Senator Megan Hunt of Omaha fired back at this notion, “You literally don’t know what your talking about. Suicidality is reduced by accepting and affirming kids…”
After about 5 hours of debate, a failed amendment, and an impromptu recess, LB 574 advanced to the final reading on a 33-16 vote.