Utah's Legislative Push for Restrictions on Transgender Youth Care

The Utah Legislature is advancing a series of bills aimed at restricting access to gender-affirming care for transgender youth. Notably, House Bill 174 (HB174), sponsored by Rep. Rex Shipp, seeks to impose more permanent restrictions on hormone therapy for minors, with limited exceptions for those already receiving treatment. This legislative effort follows a moratorium on gender-affirming care established in 2023, which prohibits surgical changes and the prescription of puberty blockers or hormone replacement therapy to minors who were not diagnosed with gender dysphoria prior to the law's enactment.

Salt Lake Tribune

In May 2025, a report commissioned by the Utah Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) concluded that gender-affirming treatments yield positive outcomes and reduce suicidality among transgender youth. The report, compiled by the University of Utah’s Drug Regimen Review Center, analyzed 277 studies involving over 28,000 pediatric patients, asserting that hormone treatments are effective and carry minimal risk. However, Rep. Shipp criticized the report, labeling it as flawed and biased, and referenced external critiques from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services and the advocacy group Do No Harm, which has been influential in shaping anti-transgender policies.

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The push against gender-affirming care in Utah has been bolstered by national conservative organizations, including Do No Harm, which has spent significant resources lobbying for such restrictions. The organization’s representatives, including Chloe Cole, a self-identified detransitioner, have actively testified in support of HB174. Critics, including Rep. Jennifer Dailey-Provost, have voiced concerns about the reliance on flawed science to justify legislation that could harm a vulnerable population. Dailey-Provost emphasized the importance of providing care to at-risk children, arguing that denying such care is a mistake.

Salt Lake Tribune

The legislative debate has been marked by conflicting narratives regarding the validity of the medical evidence supporting gender-affirming care. While the Utah report aligns with the consensus of major medical organizations, including the American Medical Association and the American Academy of Pediatrics, opponents have leveraged external critiques to undermine its credibility. The lack of public discussion on the report's findings within the legislature has raised further concerns among advocates for transgender rights.

Salt Lake Tribune

If passed, HB174 would mark the fifth consecutive year that Utah has enacted laws restricting the rights of transgender residents. The ongoing legislative efforts reflect a broader national trend, with many states adopting similar measures. As the Utah Legislature continues to deliberate on these issues, the implications for transgender youth and their access to necessary medical care remain a critical concern for advocates and healthcare professionals alike.

Salt Lake Tribune

• “Denying health care to a very marginalized, at-risk population of children is always going to be a mistake. My views on that have been clear. But I also am really, really distressed that we’ve allowed bad science to be reasoning for bad legislation.” — Rep. Jennifer Dailey-Provost, R-Salt Lake City

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• “This report, done by the Utah Department of Health and Human Services, is a flawed report with significant bias,” — Rep. Rex Shipp, R-Cedar City

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• “we provided the administration with the data and resources needed throughout the year to inform groundbreaking executive orders.” — Do No Harm Annual Report

Salt Lake Tribune

The legislative landscape in Utah regarding transgender youth care is rapidly evolving, with significant implications for both the rights of individuals and the broader societal discourse on gender identity and healthcare. As debates continue, the intersection of medical evidence, legislative action, and advocacy will play a crucial role in shaping the future of transgender rights in the state.

Salt Lake Tribune