Committee hears HB 712 to restrict non‑medical chest surgery for minors; testimony sharply divided

The House Health and Human Services and Elderly Affairs Committee held public testimony on House Bill 712, which would restrict elective chest surgery for minors while allowing specified exceptions such as cancer, severe symptomatic macromastia, or reconstructive needs. The hearing drew sharply divided testimony from legislators, clinicians, parents and young people.

The sponsor, Representative Lisa Mazer, told the committee the bill is intended to “limit gender surgeries for minors while allowing breast surgery exceptions for cases of medical necessity.” She said the measure is meant to protect children from irreversible procedures until they can give informed consent and to preserve surgical…