Bill > SB873

This bill prohibits physicians and surgeons from performing specific medical procedures on infants under one year of age who are born with variations in their physical sex characteristics, except when the procedures are necessary to address an immediate risk of physical harm. The prohibited procedures include clitoroplasty, gonadectomy, urethral modifications, and vaginoplasty. The bill defines "variations in physical sex characteristics" as physical traits that differ from stereotypical sex development, such as those resulting from conditions like androgen insensitivity syndrome. Surgical interventions are only permitted in limited medical emergencies, such as removing tissue with high malignancy risk, addressing critical urinary function issues, treating complications from previous surgeries, or preserving life. The legislature's rationale is to protect bodily autonomy, prevent potential psychological harm, and challenge medical practices that have historically been based on generalized assumptions about gender and body appearance. By restricting these procedures until an individual can provide informed consent, the bill aims to safeguard the rights of individuals born with intersex variations. The legislation will take effect on July 1, 2025, giving medical professionals and institutions time to adapt to the new requirements.

Health and Social Services

https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=SB&billnumber=873&year=2026