Texas attorney general: ‘Illegal’ for mental health providers to ‘transition’ kids in state

March 2, 2026 - 22:35

Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton has issued a formal legal opinion stating that certain medical and therapeutic procedures for gender transition are illegal when performed on minors within the state. The opinion asserts that such interventions, often termed "gender-affirming care," can constitute child abuse under existing Texas statutes.

This opinion specifically targets licensed mental health professionals, arguing that practices aimed at socially or medically transitioning a child violate state law. It builds upon previous state-level efforts to restrict these treatments for individuals under 18 years of age. Proponents of the opinion argue it is necessary to protect children from what they deem irreversible medical procedures.

Critics, including major medical associations, have condemned the move, stating it mischaracterizes established healthcare and infringes on the rights of transgender youth and their families. They argue that evidence-based care, which includes therapy and, in some cases, medically supervised treatments, is vital for the well-being of adolescents with gender dysphoria. The legal opinion is expected to fuel further debate and potential litigation over the rights of transgender minors and the scope of medical practice in Texas.