The Canadian Medical Association (CMA) has filed a constitutional challenge in Alberta Court of King's Bench against Alberta's legislation banning certain gender-affirming treatments for children under 16 and surgeries for those under 18. The CMA argues the law violates Charter rights and interferes with the physician-patient relationship, while Premier Danielle Smith defends it as necessary to protect children.
Doctors group challenging constitutionality of Alberta transgender law
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TL;DR: Key points with love ❤️The Canadian Medical Association (CMA) has filed a constitutional challenge in Alberta Court of King's Bench against Alberta's legislation banning certain gender-affirming treatments for children under 16 and surgeries for those under 18. The CMA argues the law violates Charter rights and interferes with the physician-patient relationship, while Premier Danielle Smith defends it as necessary to protect children.
Trending- 1 Alberta government passed legislation affecting transgender people last year
- 2 Canadian Medical Association filed a constitutional challenge on Wednesday
- 3 Alberta Justice Minister's office unable to comment immediately
- Doctors are put in a 'state of moral crisis'
- Potential legal battle over the constitutionality of the law
- Impact on access to gender-affirming care for youth in Alberta
- Exemption clause allows current patients to continue treatment
What: The Canadian Medical Association (CMA) is challenging the constitutionality of Alberta's legislation that bans gender-affirming treatments (hormone therapy, puberty blockers) for children under 16 and gender-affirming surgeries for those under 18. The challenge argues the law violates Charter rights, specifically freedom of conscience, and interferes with the physician-patient relationship.
When: Challenge filed Wednesday (relative to article publication); legislation passed last year.
Where: Alberta, Canada; specifically Alberta Court of King's Bench.
Why: The CMA believes the law is an "unprecedented government intrusion" that forces doctors to prioritize law over clinical guidelines and patient needs. Premier Danielle Smith states the legislation is necessary to protect children.
How: The CMA filed a challenge in court. Doctors like Dr. Jake Donaldson are involved in the court challenge, expressing moral crisis and concern over their ability to provide care.