– Texas AG Threatens “Every Possible Response” After Defiant Austin Allows “Gender Affirming” Care For Minors:
Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton has responded to a defiant decision by the Austin City Council (ACC), which voted on Thursday to ignore a state law which prohibits “gender transitioning or gender reassignment procedure or treatment” for minors under the age of 18.
In a 10-1 vote, the ACC passed the resolution which directs city resources away from SB 14.
Paxton Responds
“On May 2, 2024, the Austin City Council passed a resolution that purportedly directs the city manager and city employees not to comply with Texas’s prohibition of puberty blockers, cross-sex hormones, and invasive surgeries for children who believe their gender is different than their biological sex,” Paxton said in response.
“Riddled with problems, the resolution starts with the falsehood that such prohibited treatments have ‘proven to be evidence-based, medically necessary, and lifesaving.’ In addition to a growing body of medical research rejecting such claims, Texas concluded that the proposed treatments for minors are dangerous, and banned the practices by passing SB 14,” he said.
Paxton says his office stands ready to ensure Austin follows state law.
“If the City of Austin refuses to follow the law and protect children, my office will consider every possible response to ensure compliance,” he said. “Texas municipalities do not have the authority to pick and choose which state laws they will or will not abide by. The people of Texas have spoken, and the Austin City Council must listen.”
As the Epoch Times notes further, the resolution was introduced by Council Member Chito Vela, who represents District 4. It was co-sponsored by four other council members—Ryan Alter, Zo Qadri, José Velásquez, and Vanessa Fuentes.
The one no vote was Council Member Mackenzie Kelly of District 6.
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