The LGBTQ+ Democratic Caucus of the Nature Coast Region (NCR LGBTQ Dems).
Contact: Nathan Sharp
Phone: (954) 706-1144
Statement on HB 1421 - “Gender Clinical Interventions”
Inverness, Florida Release: March 3, 2023. For Immediate release
HB 1421 is yet another unnecessary effort by Florida’s Republicans to discriminate against one of our minority communities, and, in doing so, it will put Floridians at risk. This legislation seeks to destroy a basic right of human self-identity for transgender Floridians, who have long had a path to having their identification show a gender marker consistent with their appearance and identity.
The bill also seeks to limit gender-affirming medical care, such as hormone therapy, which, contrary to the bill sponsors’ rhetoric, is associated with positive mental health outcomes including showing promise for reducing suicide risk. A 2021 peer-reviewed study by The Trevor Project’s researchers, published in the Journal of Adolescent Health, found that gender-affirming hormone therapy is significantly related to lower rates of depression, suicidal thoughts, and suicide attempts among transgender and nonbinary youth.
“All Americans deserve access to gender-affirming care as deemed medically necessary by their health care team and in the case of minors, their parents. Massullo and other Republicans in the Florida Legislature are dooming trans kids to depression and potentially suicide.” said Nathan Sharp, President of the NCR LGBTQ Dems. “I’m dismayed that my own State House Representative cares so little about the health and well-being of his constituents that he’s signed onto this bill. Dr. Massullo has access to countless studies by legitimate medical professionals and research proving that this care works to save lives. The party that claims to be pro-life and for small government proves once again that’s a complete fabrication.”
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Founded in 2022, The LGBTQ+ Democratic Caucus of the Nature Coast Region (NCR LGBTQ+ Dems) represents the LGBTQ+ community to the Democratic Party, encourages voter registration, promotes an active interest in politics, and supports Democratic candidates who are committed to the principle that all persons deserve equal rights regardless of sexual orientation, gender identity or expression.
We value diversity and welcome anyone who shares our vision.
For more information, press only:
Nathan Sharp, President
(954) 706-1144
For more information on the organization:
Website: www.ncrlgbtqdems.org