PHOENIX — Senator Mark Finchem has introduced SB 1095, a bill that protects children from irreversible “transgender” procedures and stops taxpayer dollars from funding them.
SB 1095 says that doctors and other health professionals may not perform irreversible transgender surgery on anyone under 18. It also bars transgendering surgical procedures and referrals for minors. The bill draws firm lines without impacting unrelated, medically necessary care for treatment of injuries or illnesses.
The bill also protects taxpayers. State and local government money may not be used to pay for transgender procedures for minors. Government owned facilities and government employed providers may not perform them. Arizona’s Medicaid program may not cover these procedures for minors.
Under SB 1095, health professionals who violate the law would face discipline, and families would be given the right to seek relief in court. A future Attorney General could also enforce the law, making sure that the rules are followed.
This bill is about protecting children from permanent surgical decisions they cannot undo, respecting parents, and keeping public funds focused on basic services. It aims to return Arizona on a path that protects lives and families.