The United States Supreme Court convened to hear oral arguments in the case of United States v. Skrmetti, a legal dispute concerning state authority over medical practices for minors. The focus is on Tennessee's legislation that limits irreversible medical interventions for minors with gender dysphoria.
The Tennessee Attorney General's Office defended the state's legislative measures addressing the rise in childhood gender-transition procedures. The law restricts certain medical interventions for minors, citing mental distress from conflicts between sex and asserted gender identity as a key concern. "We are here defending Tennessee’s law protecting children from irreversible and unproven gender transition procedures," stated Tennessee Attorney General Jonathan Skrmetti. He emphasized that the state's General Assembly considered both medical evidence and international precedents before passing the law.
Opponents argue that the law discriminates based on sex and transgender status, potentially violating the U.S. Constitution’s Equal Protection Clause. However, Tennessee maintains that the legislation is a reasonable exercise of its authority to regulate medical practices within its borders.
"Our arguments were ultimately about constitutional clarity and common sense," said Attorney General Skrmetti. He stressed that states have the right and responsibility to protect children, regulate medicine, and assess risks and benefits independently.
For further details on Tennessee’s filing at the Supreme Court, interested parties can access it through provided channels.