Holland Reporter

Individuals who underwent gender reassignment treatments as minors spoke before the House Oversight Subcommittee on Child Welfare, sharing their experiences of pressure from medical professionals to pursue such procedures. The hearing also included testimony from a former transition case manager who became a whistleblower, detailing what she described as unethical practices within the system.

Rep. Luke Meerman, chair of the committee, addressed those present:

“I want to thank the brave people who came forth to share their experiences today after undergoing so much trauma and deceit – their commitment to fighting against the system so that other children do not suffer similar fates is selfless and admirable.

“Our responsibility is to listen to the people and ensure our policies prioritize the health and safety of every child in our state, as well as provide proper oversight over our health care system to ensure treatment and care practices are ethical and sound. Today’s testimony underscores the need for serious investigation of this violence against children.”

One individual testified about being encouraged at age 13 by a therapist to consider gender reassignment, which led to hormone treatments that resulted in significant side effects. As an adult seeking detransition, he continues to experience ongoing health problems and has difficulty accessing support.

Parents present at the hearing described being told by medical professionals that failing to support their child's transition could lead to suicide or even risk losing custody of their child.

Other testimonies focused on lasting physical and psychological effects from transitioning during childhood, including chronic pain, tissue issues, bone growth abnormalities, incontinence, polycystic ovary syndrome, sexual dysfunction, among others.

Prisha Mosley recounted her experience: “My genitals were disfigured by chemicals before I [was old enough to] consent to sex as an adult.”

Rep. Meerman responded: “This isn’t health care – it’s mutilation,” adding his concern both for victims and for parents pressured by trusted professionals.

Jamie Reid, formerly a case manager at St. Louis Children’s Hospital's Pediatric Transgender Center, shared her reasons for speaking out despite political differences:

“I cannot undo these harms, but I can dedicate the rest of my life to telling the truth and protecting others,” Reid said.

She described witnessing "morally and medically appalling" actions toward minors during her time at the center and expressed regret for her involvement.

Meerman emphasized that this issue transcends political lines: “This is proof that this isn’t a partisan issue. Forcing children to make lifelong health decisions before they can fully understand the consequences isn’t just irresponsible, it’s child abuse,” he said. “The people we heard from today live every day with physical and emotional burdens. We have a duty to protect children from this so-called ‘care.’ I hope today’s hearing will alter the discussion and highlight the injustice that has been committed against our children.”

He also thanked Rep. Brad Paquette for his efforts in bringing attention to these matters and stated his intention for further investigation into these practices.