PFLAG Johns Creek expresses its strong disapproval of legislation filed yesterday by Ginny Ehrhart (HB 1060–which would make standard, life-saving medical care for transgender teens a felony in Georgia). We urge lawmakers to do all in their power to oppose this bill, should it make it out of committee. It is a great governmental overreach for legislators to try to come between medical professionals and families. It is also dangerous; studies continue to point to the life-saving necessity of appropriate care for transgender minors [https://www.cnn.com/2020/01/23/health/transgender-puberty-blockers-suicide-study/index.html](https://www.cnn.com/2020/01/23/health/transgender-puberty-blockers-suicide-study/index.html). Some of the language in the bill could be misunderstood (e.g. “minors” is a broad category, most of whom would not be eligible for these treatments), leading representatives to support the bill out of ignorance or baseless fear. As allies and parents of transgender individuals, we have seen the way proper care can make the difference in the lives of transgender adolescents and older teens. We can relate story after story of anxiety, self-harm, suicidality, and inpatient stays in psychiatric hospitals for teens who are unable to access the care they need. We can also testify to the stories of many teens who, once receiving support from their families and expert care from medical professionals have moved out of depression and suicidality, stopped self-harming, and moved on to living normal, healthy lives. We hope lawmakers will take the time to research this issue so that they can speak up knowledgeably with their colleagues in the House. Here are resources to start that process: https://ift.tt/2I48liD; https://ift.tt/2TqGqyx We implore lawmakers and allies to use their voices to truly stand up for the vulnerable children this legislation targets.