The House Judiciary Committee of the Montana Legislature convened on March 21, 2025, to discuss various topics, including the use of medications in gender-affirming care. The meeting highlighted the broader applications of certain treatments, particularly puberty blockers, which have been utilized for over four decades to assist children experiencing early pubertal changes.

During the discussions, it was emphasized that these medications are not exclusively for gender-affirming purposes. For instance, puberty blockers are also prescribed to children as young as two or three years old to pause premature puberty, allowing for normal development. This point underscored the necessity of these treatments for various medical conditions beyond gender identity.

The committee also reviewed data indicating that surgical procedures related to gender-affirming care are more frequently performed on cisgender individuals than on transgender individuals. A recent survey revealed that over 90% of certain surgeries, such as top surgery, are conducted on non-trans individuals, often for reasons related to appearance or medical necessity.

The discussions reflected a growing recognition of the diverse applications of these treatments, reinforcing the importance of understanding their role in both gender-affirming care and other medical contexts. The committee's exploration of these issues is part of a broader legislative effort to address healthcare access and the implications of medical treatments for various populations.

As the meeting concluded, the committee acknowledged the need for continued dialogue on these topics, emphasizing the importance of informed decision-making in healthcare policies affecting all individuals.