Legally Protected Health Care - Gender-Affirming Treatment

This Maryland bill expands the state's definition of "legally protected health care" to include specific gender-affirming treatments, such as hormone therapy and puberty blockers, when provided by licensed medical professionals. By updating several state laws, the measure ensures that these services receive the same legal protections as other protected health care, shielding providers from disciplinary actions and preventing the state from sharing resources with out-of-state investigations related to the treatment. Additionally, the bill restricts courts from issuing subpoenas or ex parte orders to investigate these medical matters unless the underlying conduct would also be considered a crime within Maryland. These changes primarily affect healthcare providers, patients seeking gender-affirming care, and legal entities involved in investigations or litigation concerning such treatments.