Arizona House Weighs Controversial Bill Targeting Child Gender Reassignment as Medical Malpractice

By Matthew Holloway |

The Arizona Senate has advanced a significant piece of legislation aimed at holding healthcare professionals accountable for gender transition procedures involving minors. The bill, known as SB 1586, was introduced by Senate Majority Leader Janae Shamp (R-LD-29) and seeks to establish civil liability for physicians related to both gender transition and detransition procedures.

This legislation aims to protect children and adolescents who may later suffer from serious consequences due to such procedures. It opens avenues for medical malpractice lawsuits that could follow these cases. The Senate passed the bill in early March along party lines, and it has since undergone its initial readings in the House of Representatives.

In her remarks after the Senate vote, Sen. Shamp expressed concern over the enduring impact of these medical interventions on young individuals. “We have heard many tragic stories about young boys and girls who have submitted to life-altering procedures… only to experience severe repercussions later on when they mature,” she said.

Shamp emphasized the need for further legislative action to deter providers from performing what she described as illegal and immoral operations. “Republicans have shown their willingness to do what is necessary to stop the harmful mutilation of our children’s bodies,” she stated, vowing to continue the fight against these practices.

The proposed bill outlines specific grounds for medical malpractice actions. Under its provisions, healthcare professionals would be held personally liable for costs arising from any detransition procedures within 25 years following a minor’s initial gender transition procedure. It also empowers victims and their families to pursue civil lawsuits for various forms of damages, including compensatory and punitive damages, as well as coverage for legal fees.

Should it be enacted, SB 1586 represents a substantial shift in Arizona’s approach to gender transition procedures for minors, reflecting a growing national debate on the issue.

Matthew Holloway is a senior reporter for AZ Free News. Follow him on X for his latest stories, or email tips to Matthew@azfreenews.com.