Georgia Senate Passes Bill Banning Transgender Youth Services

Sandy Springs Senator Josh McLaurin Fights Against the Controversial Legislation

Published on Feb. 11, 2026

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The Georgia Senate has passed a bill that bans certain medical treatments for transgender youth, rewriting a previously non-controversial nursing bill. Sandy Springs state senator Josh McLaurin, who is running for lieutenant governor, has strongly criticized the move as a political play ahead of the elections.

Why it matters

This legislation has sparked a heated debate over LGBTQ+ rights and access to healthcare for transgender youth in Georgia. The ban has raised concerns about discrimination and the potential impact on the mental health and wellbeing of transgender young people in the state.

The details

The Georgia Senate bill, which was originally intended to address nursing regulations, was rewritten to include a ban on gender-affirming care for minors, such as puberty blockers and hormone therapy. Senator Josh McLaurin, who represents Sandy Springs, has been at the forefront of the opposition, condemning the move as a political tactic rather than a genuine policy effort.

  • The Georgia Senate passed the bill banning transgender youth services on February 10, 2026.
  • Senator Josh McLaurin, who is running for lieutenant governor, has been vocal in his criticism of the legislation since it was introduced.

The players

Georgia Senate

The legislative body that passed the bill banning certain transgender medical treatments for minors.

Senator Josh McLaurin

The state senator representing Sandy Springs, Georgia, who has been fighting against the controversial legislation and has accused the Senate of using it as a political ploy ahead of the elections.

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident (San Francisco Chronicle)

What’s next

The legislation will now move to the Georgia House of Representatives for consideration, where it is expected to face continued opposition from LGBTQ+ advocates and allies.

The takeaway

This legislation has become a flashpoint in the ongoing debate over LGBTQ+ rights and access to healthcare for transgender individuals in Georgia. The fight over the bill highlights the political tensions surrounding these issues and the importance of continued advocacy and activism to protect the rights of vulnerable communities.