COLUMBIA, S.C. — On the second day of the legislative session, House Republicans advanced a bill banning gender-affirming care for minors.
The 'Help Not Harm' bill, as it's called, is set to go to the House floor for debate.
If passed, it would prohibit minors from undergoing gender-transition procedures, including surgeries, hormone therapy, and puberty blockers. Notably, it also prevents school officials from withholding a student's chosen gender identity from legal guardians
"I ran on protecting these kids from self-harm," said Rep. Jordan Pace (R- Berkeley County).
"This isn't about protecting children; this is about politics," said Rep. JA Moore (D-Charleston County).
Providers, under this bill, can gradually taper off hormones or puberty blockers, with prescriptions ending by January 31, 2025. LGBTQ advocates, rallying outside the State House, express their determination to fight against what they see as a political attack.
"They don't care about trans kids. This is a naked political attack, and it is absolutely heartbreaking," said "We will never ever lose hope. We will never stop working to support our community."
Despite pediatricians testifying that such surgeries are not performed in South Carolina, this remains a top priority for the GOP.
"The bill is not to hinder anyone from choosing to live their life how they want to, I just think those are decisions that should be made once you’re 18 years of age," said Rep. Fawn Pedalino (R-Clarendon County).
Some expressed frustration that this bill is overshadowing critical discussion on hate crimes, medical marijuana and education legislation.
"Whatever we do we need to do it quickly because we have other important issues. Treating people with dignity and respect—that should be automatic," said Rep. Wendell Gilliard (D-Charleston County).
If the bill passes in the House, it will move to the Senate, which may be less eager to advance the issue.
The bill is sponsored by House Majority Leader Davey Hiott and House Speaker Murrell Smith, joined by 27 other GOP co-sponsors. This collective sponsorship sends a clear signal that the legislation is a top priority for House Republicans.
So far, 22 other states have passed similar laws, including North Carolina.