HB1399: Modifies a provision relating to presentence investigations

I am writing to express my immense disapproval and disgust towards MD HB1399, or the terribly named the "Protect the Kids Act". As a Transgender man who started testosterone at the age of 19, I can affirm from personal experience that being on hormone therapy was one of the best decisions of my life and I wish I could have done it sooner. Not only has testosterone significantly lessened the depression and dysphoria I experience, but it has cured me of my premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD). PMDD for those that are lucky enough to have never experienced it, it is often described as a more severe form of PMS that deeply interferes with social life, work, and self care. I personally experienced frequent fits of crying, spontaneous acts of selfharm, suicidal thoughts, and a general lack of control. I fully believe I would be unable to hold my job or attend school without this treatment. It's true that some people try hormone therapy and regret it, but that is a personal choice that the government has no right to meddle with. Those decisions are meant for medical professionals, not politicians with no professional training on the subject. Furthermore, I find it hypocritical that circumcision, plastic surgery, piercings, and other cosmetic alterations are considered okay, but this is where the government draws the line. I urge you to either protect all bodily autonomy or none at all. Though I'd much rather you choose the option that represents the foundation of this country: freedom. Thank you for your time.

Vote NO on HB1399. This proposed legislation seeks to prohibit licensed healthcare professionals from providing cross-sex hormone therapy and gender-affirming treatments to minors for gender dysphoria and related mental health conditions. While aimed at protecting children, such a blanket ban would deny evidence-based medical care to transgender youth. Expert medical associations oppose such restrictions, which increase risks of depression, suicide, and other poor outcomes when transgender children cannot access appropriate transition services. I urge you to review recommendations from groups like the American Academy of Pediatrics and American Psychological Association that highlight the medical necessity of gender-affirming care. Rather than legislating specific treatments, therapy decisions should remain between doctors, transgender minors, and their families based on current standards of care. Transgender children deserve access to healthcare that supports their wellbeing and healthy development.