Colorado voters to decide on ban of gender-related surgeries for minors

Colorado’s November ballot will feature Proposition 135, which seeks to ban all surgeries performed on individuals under 18 that are intended to change biological sex characteristics, covering both gender-affirming operations and any similar procedures for cisgender minors. The initiative also blocks state, federal, Medicaid, and private insurance payments for these surgeries, while allowing exceptions for male circumcision and medically verified sexual development disorders, though definitions remain vague.

Non-surgical gender-affirming care such as hormone therapy, puberty blockers, and counseling would remain legal. Proponents, led by Protect Kids Colorado and parent Erin Lee, argue the ban prevents irreversible decisions by minors, whereas opponents, including LGBTQ advocacy groups and medical associations, contend that current consent laws are sufficient and that the measure could limit essential care for trans youth.

Data show such surgeries are rare, with studies indicating only a handful per 100,000 adolescents, and the fiscal impact is projected to be minimal. The outcome will determine whether Colorado joins the growing list of states restricting gender-related medical procedures for youths.