The Indiana Democratic Party, the organization that advocates for the future of Indiana and its families and workers, today issued the following statement by Chairman Mike Schmuhl in response to the bill prohibiting gender-affirming care for minors passing the Indiana House:

“Despite claiming to be steadfast supporters of parental rights, the Republican supermajority in the Statehouse passed legislation to restrict parents’ ability to obtain healthcare services for their children. Republicans cannot claim the mantle of parental rights and pass bills to take away their ability to access healthcare for their children at the same time. 

Medical professionals across the state have warned this proposal will endanger the mental and physical wellbeing of Hoosier students and their families. We should listen to the medical community and their first-hand expertise on this issue, and quit driving a wedge between children, parents and their doctors. In addition, if the bill becomes law, organizations have already committed to suing the state, a move that could cost taxpayers millions.

Statehouse Democrats heard the concerns of doctors, parents, and students, and voted against this hateful legislation every step of the way. Indiana Democrats will continue to stand with LGBTQ+ Hoosiers, reject proposals that strip away parents’ rights, and support our medical community.”

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