Non-Enforcement of Other States’ Laws on ‘Gender Reassignment’ for Minors (Bill S.2475-A-Hoylman-Sigal/A.6046-A-Bronson)

Bill S.2475-A-Hoylman-Sigal/A.6046-A-Bronson seeks to prevent the state of New York from enforcing or cooperating with laws from other states that might punish out-of-state parents who obtain so-called “gender-affirming care” for their minor children in New York. The legislation would also prevent New York from enforcing or cooperating with laws from other states that might punish medical personnel for providing so-called “gender-affirming care.”

Specifically, this legislation would bar consideration of any out-of-state law that would authorize the removal of a child from a parent’s custody because that parent allowed the child to obtain “gender-affirming care.” It would also block the state of New York from cooperating with other states in regard to arrests, subpoenas, and extraditions arising from out-of-state laws banning “gender-affirming care.” Finally, the bill would prevent New York medical personnel who provide “gender-affirming care” from suffering adverse action with regard to licensure or insurance.

Inviting New Yorkers to scoff at other states’ laws is not a legitimate exercise of the Legislature’s authority. Furthermore, the state of New York should not insulate abortion providers from the insurance consequences that may result in their disregard for other states’ laws. This bill should not become law.