PCUSA Approves Measure Supporting Gender-Transition Procedures for Minors

LOUISVILLE, KY — The Presbyterian Church (USA) has approved a measure supporting access to gender-transition treatments, including for minors, following a vote during the denomination's 227th General Assembly. Delegates approved the overture, known as GEN-02, "On Access to Healthcare," by a vote of 441-30.

The measure describes gender transition as medically necessary for many individuals experiencing gender dysphoria and opposes state laws that restrict access to such treatments.

During debate, the Rev. Olivia Lane, moderator of the General Assembly's Gender and Sexuality Justice Committee, explained that the committee removed the phrase "including minors" from the overture's text at the request of young adult advisory delegates. She said the change was intended to avoid language that could be misused while affirming that the measure's reference to "all individuals" was meant to include people of every age. Speakers supporting the proposal described access to gender-affirming care as an important healthcare issue, and no delegates addressed the assembly in opposition before the vote.

The action comes as medical treatment for minors experiencing gender dysphoria remains the subject of continuing debate in the United States and abroad. In recent years, some medical organizations have continued to support gender-transition procedures, while other governments and health authorities have imposed restrictions on such procedures.

The United Kingdom indefinitely restricted the routine use of puberty blockers for minors outside clinical trials following a review of available evidence, and the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services released a 2025 report questioning the benefits of certain interventions for minors and highlighting potential risks.

The PCUSA joins other mainline Protestant denominations, including leaders within the United Methodist Church, in opposing state-level restrictions on gender-transition treatments.

Previously, the UOJ reported that Cleveland Clinic stopped gender surgeries and offered detransition care.