Washington, D.C. – Following Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton’s statement issued this week, mandating that gender-affirming treatments for transgender minors be investigated as cases of child abuse, People For the American Way President Ben Jealous released the following statement:

“This action by Ken Paxton endangers vulnerable young people and families in appalling ways. Gender-affirming treatment is literally lifesaving treatment for transgender young people, and parents and guardians who support their young people through this process are among the most compassionate and caring. It is horrifying to think of prosecuting these families, and equally horrifying that teachers and social workers would be coerced to inform on families in the Stasi-state atmosphere Texas is creating. This law can and should be legally challenged and that is one more reason why we continue to make the case that having fair-minded judges on our courts is so critically important.”

About People For the American Way 
People For the American Way is a progressive advocacy organization founded to fight right-wing extremism and build a democratic society that implements the ideals of freedom, equality, opportunity and justice for all. We encourage civic participation, defend fundamental rights, and fight to dismantle systemic barriers to equitable opportunity. Learn more: https://www.pfaw.org.