Governor Greg Gianforte has filed an amicus brief with the U.S. Supreme Court in support of Tennessee’s laws aimed at protecting children from permanent and experimental medical and surgical procedures. This move comes as the Supreme Court prepares to hear United States v. Skrmetti, a case initiated by the Biden administration challenging the Tennessee law, which shares similarities with Montana’s recently enacted Youth Health Protection Act.
The Supreme Court is expected to hear oral arguments on the case later this year. In 2023, Gianforte signed Senate Bill 99 into law, which prohibits invasive medical treatments that can permanently affect the healthy development of minors.
In his brief, Gianforte argues for the upholding of the Tennessee law, emphasizing the societal interest in safeguarding children. He stated, “Society has an interest in protecting its children because family is the building block of a free society.” He reinforced the role of state policy in ensuring the health and safety of citizens, particularly minors.
The governor further noted that “Children who struggle with gender identity deserve love, compassion, and respect. They are entitled to protection, not exploitation.” He asserted that while children’s identities are still forming, they should not be subjected to experimental and irreversible medical treatments.
Gianforte highlighted that Tennessee, along with Montana and several other states, has enacted laws restricting certain medical procedures for minors dealing with gender dysphoria. He pointed to progressive nations like Norway, Finland, Sweden, the Netherlands, the United Kingdom, and Denmark, which have also implemented similar restrictions.
Concluding his brief, Gianforte stated, “Montana joins Tennessee and other states in its effort to ensure the next generation has the ability to perform great feats, solve thorny problems, create things of great beauty, and persevere through any struggle.”
The governor’s full amicus brief with the U.S. Supreme Court may be viewed here.