In a pivotal decision on Tuesday, a federal judge denied the U.S. Department of Justice’s request to temporarily halt the litigation challenging Alabama’s prohibition on gender-affirming care for minors. This development comes as similar cases make their way toward potential consideration by the U.S. Supreme Court.
U.S. District Judge Liles Burke dismissed the Justice Department’s plea to pause the Alabama case until appellate courts determine the fate of related petitions questioning the legality of state-imposed bans on gender-affirming care. Burke, in declining the request, highlighted the rapidly evolving nature of this unique legal landscape.
For now, the case will proceed as scheduled, according to Burke. He hinted that a postponement might be considered later if the related petitions receive approval.
The U.S. Supreme Court is under pressure to review an appellate court decision permitting bans on gender-affirming care to persist in Kentucky and Tennessee. In the Alabama case, families with transgender children are urging the full 11th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals to scrutinize a decision allowing the Alabama law to take effect.
The trial for the Alabama case is slated for April, introducing a crucial timeline in the ongoing legal battle.
Notably, over 22 states have implemented laws either banning or restricting gender-affirming care for minors. The majority of these bans are currently facing legal challenges. Alabama’s ban stands out, categorizing the provision of puberty blockers or gender-affirming hormones to individuals under 19 as a felony, punishable by up to 10 years in prison. It’s important to note that the law is currently under injunction, pending the issuance of a mandate by the 11th Circuit appeals court.
