Florida Congresswoman Anna Paulina Luna (R) says she is in full support for gender-affirming care to have access restrictions put in place for minors.
Recently, the House voted 215–201 to approve a bill blocking Medicaid funding for gender-affirming care for minors, which follows another bill, the Protect Children’s Innocence Act, that prohibits gender-affirming medical procedures for people under 18.
In an exclusive interview with The Floridian, Rep. Luna shared her thoughts regarding gender identity, the mental health aspect, and access for minors.
When asked if gender-affirming care has an important place in society, the Congresswoman said she doesn’t believe it does. However, she doesn't call for its outright banning, only calling for restrictions to be in place for minors, citing incomplete brain development.
“I would argue differently. I just really think that, you know, especially for kids that are pushed into this, you know, they're not even fully developed, their brains are still evolving. As an adult, if you want to do what you want to do as an adult, I don't agree with it; that is your decision. But as a child?” Luna questioned.
When asked whether gender identity is primarily a mental or gender issue, Luna said there is no clear answer, noting that some people who transition report mental health issues while others experience significant benefits.
She also clarified that it can also be a biological anomaly, but she clarified that it is a very small percentage of cases.
“I think that there are some cases where people do have the biological anomalies that might exist, for example, hermaphrodites, but that's such a small percentage," she commented. "I think a majority of what you're seeing currently, there are high instances of depression, suicide, etc, and so I do think that there's sometimes a connection related. Then again, you have other people like Caitlyn Jenner, who seem to be, you know, embracing and living their best life.”
Luna, however, noted that restricting access to minors is important until they become adults.
“My focus is more on the children. As an adult, people are free to do whatever they want. I don't agree with it, but they're free to do it, as long as they're not suppressing other people’s rights,” she concluded.
