After US Supreme Court gender-affirming care decision, local advocates expect more seeking health care to come to Illinois
Share this @internewscast.com

CHICAGO (WLS) — The Supreme Court on Wednesday upheld Tennessee’s ban on gender-affirming care for minors.

The law bars gender transition surgery, puberty blockers and hormone therapy for people under 18.

ABC7 Chicago is now streaming 24/7. Click here to watch

Local leaders in the LGBTQ community are raising concerns about the impact of the decision.

The Supreme Court’s decision marks a historic moment as it addresses an anti-transgender law for the first time. Opponents of the verdict argue that its effects will extend beyond just the transgender community.

“This isn’t merely targeting trans youth or LGBT individuals; it’s an affront to personal bodily autonomy,” expressed Manuel Hernandez, the executive director of the Association of Latinos Motivating Action.

This decision stands as one of the most pivotal in LGBTQ legal history, signifying that states have the authority to prohibit gender-affirming medical treatments for transgender minors. According to Hernandez, such treatments are critical and life-saving.

“It actually decrease suicide ideation and intense by 70% among trans youth when they are receiving gender-affirming care,” Hernandez said.

Now those working to support the transgender community are expecting a massive influx of those seeking this health care in Illinois.

“Whether you’re, you know, 18, or you’re 35 or you’re 55 right now, there’s a year waitlist just for a consultation, not even the surgery,” said Asher McMaher, Trans Upfront IL executive director.

For parents like McMaher who has a 13-year-old transgender daughter, the ruling hits closer to home.

“We’re seeing kids like my own, who are trying to stand up within their privilege for those kids who are not being able to get access,” McMaher said.

Those on the other side say the ruling was the best decision.

In a statement, Illinois Republican state Sen. Andrew Chesney said, “By upholding the Tennessee law, the high court rightfully recognizes that prescribing puberty blockers, cross-sex hormones, and performing disfiguring surgeries on minors is not healthcare. It’s woke ideology-driven malpractice.”

“We see hormones and blockers used for cis people more than we do trans people. Trans people are 1% of the population, right?” McMaher said. “We’re targeting children, and that’s not OK.”

Trans Upfront IL is planning a protest of the Supreme Court’s decision for this Saturday.

Copyright © 2025 WLS-TV. All Rights Reserved.

Share this @internewscast.com
You May Also Like
Man in a black jacket holding a red chainsaw.

Elon Musk Unveils New Political Party to Restore American ‘Freedom’ Following Fallout with Trump and Departure from White House

ELON Musk has launched a new political following his explosive row with…
Tropical Storm Chantal forms off South Carolina coast

Tropical Storm Chantal Develops Near the Coast of South Carolina

On Saturday morning, Tropical Storm Chantal emerged near the coast of South…
Floods turned beloved Texas camp into a nightmare. At least 23 girls remain missing

Floods Transform Cherished Texas Camp into Tragedy: 23 Girls Still Missing

In KERRVILLE, Texas, concerned parents took to social media to desperately share…
JSO: Young couple dead after apparent murder-suicide on Jacksonville's Northside

Tragic Incident on Jacksonville’s Northside: Young Couple Found Dead in Suspected Murder-Suicide

JSO Sergeant Highfill mentioned that both individuals were approximately 19-20 years old…
Boss under fire after texts to pregnant employee revealed

Manager Faces Backlash After Texts to Pregnant Employee Exposed

An awkward text exchange between a pregnant employee and her boss over…
What Movie Should I Watch Tonight? ‘Dances with Wolves’ Extended Cut on HBO Max

Looking for a Movie to Watch Tonight? Check Out the Extended Version of ‘Dances with Wolves’ on HBO Max

This Fourth of July, take a moment to remember the Kevin Costner…
Parents desperately seeking answers on missing campers after Texas flood

Identities Released of Three Campers Who Died as Texas Flood Death Toll Increases

Three young girls were found dead after a devastating flood swept through…
UN commission accuses Israel of 'extermination' in controversial report

UN Criticized for Funding Committee Aiming to Undermine Israel, Despite Financial Shortfall

Critics have expressed outrage at the United Nations for allocating funds to…
Police: Woman shot at Jacksonville Red Roof Inn hotel; suspect outstanding

Shooting at Mississippi Way Block Party Sends 2 to Hospital, Says LCPD

The Lake City Police Department says officers found multiple spent shell casings…
Brooks Nader's period stain steals the spotlight during wardrobe mishap at Wimbledon

Brooks Nader’s Wardrobe Blunder at Wimbledon: Period Stain Catches Attention

Brooks Nader poked fun at herself after unexpectedly getting her period during…
Missouri judge again blocks many of the state's anti-abortion laws

Missouri Judge Repeatedly Blocks Several State Anti-Abortion Laws

JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. (AP) — On Thursday, a Missouri judge halted numerous…
Dalai Lama says he hopes to live beyond 130 years

Dalai Lama Expresses Hopes of Living Past 130 Years

The aged Dalai Lama expressed his desire to live beyond 130 years…