In a landmark 6-3 decision, the U.S. Supreme Court has upheld Tennessee’s controversial law banning gender-affirming medical care for minors. The ruling allows the state to enforce restrictions on puberty blockers, hormone therapy, and gender-related surgeries for individuals under 18.

“This ruling could set a precedent that affects not only Tennessee but multiple states considering similar laws,” said legal analyst Maria Cortez.

Supporters of the law argue that it protects children from making irreversible decisions at a young age, while critics say it denies essential healthcare and violates constitutional rights. LGBTQ+ advocacy groups have condemned the decision, warning that it could set a precedent for similar laws in other states.

As this story continues to develop, civil rights groups vow to take the fight to federal courts and advocate for broader protections of LGBTQ+ youth.

Legal experts say the ruling may embolden conservative lawmakers to introduce more restrictive legislation targeting transgender rights. Meanwhile, civil rights organizations are preparing to challenge similar laws in federal courts, hoping to reverse what they see as a dangerous rollback of protections for trans youth.