Fact Check: 24 states have similar bans on gender-affirming care for minors.

Fact Check: "24 states have similar bans on gender-affirming care for minors."

What We Know

As of March 2023, a report from the Williams Institute indicates that 30 states have restricted access to gender-affirming care or are considering such laws. These restrictions often come with severe penalties for healthcare providers and families who seek or provide this care for minors (source-1).

Furthermore, as of January 2025, it was reported that 24 states had existing bans specifically on gender-affirming hormone therapy and surgeries for minors (source-2). This suggests that while the number of states with some form of restriction is higher, the specific count of states with outright bans on certain types of gender-affirming care for minors is indeed 24.

Analysis

The claim that "24 states have similar bans on gender-affirming care for minors" is partially true. It is accurate in that there are 24 states with specific bans on gender-affirming hormone therapy and surgeries for minors. However, the broader context is essential: 30 states have enacted or are considering various forms of restrictions on gender-affirming care, which may not necessarily include outright bans (source-1).

The sources cited are from reputable institutions, such as the Williams Institute, which is known for its research on LGBTQ+ issues. However, the interpretation of what constitutes a "ban" can vary. Some states may have laws that restrict access without completely prohibiting it, while others impose outright bans. Additionally, the evolving nature of legislation means that these numbers can change frequently, making it important to stay updated with the latest information.

The reliability of the sources is generally high, as they come from established research organizations and news outlets. However, it is crucial to note that the political and social contexts surrounding these laws can lead to biases in reporting. For instance, some sources may emphasize the number of states with bans to highlight a trend of increasing restrictions, while others may focus on the total number of states considering legislation to illustrate a broader movement.

Conclusion

The claim that "24 states have similar bans on gender-affirming care for minors" is partially true. While it accurately reflects the number of states with specific bans on hormone therapy and surgeries, it does not encompass the broader landscape of restrictions affecting 30 states. Thus, the statement lacks nuance regarding the types of restrictions in place and the evolving nature of state legislation.

Fact Check: 24 states have similar bans on gender-affirming care for minors.