GUARD Act

This proposed legislation aims to amend the Child Abuse Prevention and Treatment Act (CAPTA). It would disqualify states from receiving CAPTA funding if they discriminate against parents or guardians who oppose gender identity affirmation for their minor children. This opposition encompasses medical, surgical, pharmacological, or psychological treatments, alongside social changes like clothing, name, or pronoun use, particularly when the claimed gender identity is, in the parent's estimation, inconsistent with the minor's biological sex, irrespective of medical diagnoses. The bill establishes an enforcement mechanism, allowing parents or guardians who face such discrimination to sue the Department of Health and Human Services. This action could seek to halt funding to the non-compliant state and mandate the return of improperly awarded funds to the Treasury.