The U.S. Supreme Court heard oral arguments in United States v. Skrmetti, examining Tennessee's law (SB1) that prohibits medical professionals from providing gender-affirming care to minors, including puberty blockers and hormone therapy.

The case centers on Tennessee's 2023 law that aims to protect minors' health and welfare by restricting certain medical treatments for gender transition. The law still allows these medications for other medical conditions, such as treating precocious puberty or delayed onset of puberty.

Three transgender adolescents and their families, joined by the Biden administration, challenged the law, claiming it violates constitutional equal protection rights. While a federal district court initially blocked the ban, the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Sixth Circuit later upheld it.

Key Arguments:

For the Plaintiffs:

• The ban classifies based on sex and requires heightened scrutiny
• Draws parallels to the 2020 Bostock v. Clayton County ruling
• Argues for equal protection guarantees

For Tennessee:

• Claims age-based classification, not discrimination
• Cites scientific uncertainty around treatments
• Points to European restrictions as precedent
• Emphasizes protection from premature decision-making

During oral arguments, the Court's liberal justices supported the challengers, while conservatives expressed skepticism about judicial involvement. Chief Justice Roberts noted the Court's lack of expertise, and Justice Kavanaugh questioned whether the issue belongs in the democratic process.

The case's significance extends beyond gender-affirming care, touching on religious liberty, parental rights, and medical ethics. The outcome could affect similar laws in 23 other states.

The Supreme Court's decision is expected by June or early July 2025.

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