Bill > HB1559

This bill establishes comprehensive protections for foster children with intersex traits, prohibiting nonconsensual medical procedures and treatments that are not medically necessary. The bill defines intersex traits as biological characteristics that do not conform to typical male or female definitions and outlines specific medical procedures related to intersex traits, including hormonal treatments and various genital surgeries. For any medical procedure or treatment that is not medically necessary, the bill requires explicit, voluntary, and informed consent from the child, which must be obtained through a rigorous process involving detailed information disclosure, multiple evaluations by a mental health professional, and written documentation. Additionally, for non-medically necessary procedures, the bill mandates court approval, requiring a hearing where the child is represented by an attorney knowledgeable about intersex traits. The court must determine whether the proposed procedure is in the child's best interest by considering physical and psychological risks and benefits, potential limitations on future fertility and body characteristics, and the child's own consent. The bill aims to protect foster children with intersex traits from unnecessary medical interventions by ensuring they have agency in decisions about their own bodies and medical treatment.

Health and Social Services

https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB1559