S.C. Senate debates transgender ban proposal

Columbia, SC (WOLO) — The South Carolina Senate spent an hour debating a proposed bill that would ban minors from being able to get gender affirming procedures, before adjourning Wednesday night.

It’s a topic creating a clear divide between those for and against the measure. Some saying the bill aims to protect children here in South Carolina, while others say it would increase the risk of some young people hurting themselves if they are not able to access surgery that would put them in the body of the gender they feel they should have been born.

The proposal that passed in the house in January would keep doctors from being able to perform transition related surgeries, prescribing puberty blockers,  or providing patients hormone treatments for anyone under 18 years old.

Lawmakers did not make a decision about the proposal Wednesday, but may bring it back to table for discussion Thursday. Stay with ABC Columbia News for updates as they become available.