Outrage after Texas attorney general calls gender-affirming surgery ‘child abuse’

Rights groups argue the attorney general's opinions, which have no legal bearing, will spread fear and misinformation

Trans rights groups have expressed outrage and fear after the Texas state attorney general Ken Paxton called gender-affirming surgeries and medical care child abuse" and state governor Greg Abbott ordered the Texas department of family and protective services (DFPS) to conduct an investigation into such practices.

Abbott said: There is no doubt that these procedures are abuse' under Texas law, and thus must be halted. [DFPS] has a responsibility to act accordingly. I'll do everything I can to protect against those who take advantage of and harm young Texans."