MT YOUTH GENDER AFFIRMING CARE NETWORK

YOUTH GENDER AFFIRMING CARE IS LEGAL IN MONTANA

In May 2025, a state judge permanently blocked enforcement of Montana SB 99, a 2023 law that sought to ban youth gender affirming care, ruling it unconstitutional under Montana’s rights to privacy and equal protection. Importantly, attempts to escalate criminal penalties against caregivers and providers have been blocked.

To support our community and ensure proper access to education, resources, and care - The MT Youth Gender Affirming Care Network was formed in 2025. The Network is hosted and coordinated by the Western Montana LGBTQ+ Community Center.

If you would like to follow the current legal status of youth gender affirming care across the nation and in Montana, visit the MAP project. The ACLU has more resources and can provide legal advice and assistance in Montana.

About the Network

The Network is comprised of a large host of nonprofit, mental health, and clinical organizations and volunteers with a focus on youth and families. If you are interested in joining the network email mtgac@lgbtmontana.

What We Do:

Host Quarterly Network Meetings for providers (virtual)
Directly support MT families to navigate gender affirming care
Coordinate with 2SLGBTQ+ organizations across MT to ensure accurate information and resources are available

Finding Gender-Affirming Medical and Mental Health Care for Montana Youth

Many medical and mental health providers across the state offer this care and are committed to supporting the well-being of transgender and gender-diverse youth. However, not all providers are experienced in working with gender identity or offering youth-specific gender-affirming care. If you’re unsure, a trusted provider can still be a valuable starting point for support and referrals.

Comprehensive services are available in Montana—including medical care, mental health counseling, and social support—for youth exploring gender identity, for transgender youth, and for their caregivers. Treatments such as puberty blockers, hormone therapy, and surgeries remain legal and available when clinically appropriate.

If you’re a youth, we hope you have a trusted adult to turn to—but we know that’s not always the case. You’re not alone. There are other safe places to start.

For youth and their parents or caregivers, a helpful first step is often talking with a family doctor, pediatrician, or therapist. You can also begin by establishing care with a new provider who understands gender-affirming care.

The Human Rights Campaign offers helpful tips for how to start these conversations with a provider here.

If you are a youth, caregiver, or provider looking for resources or referrals in Montana, please reach out—we’re here to help. Email us at mtgac@lgbtmontana.org

Resources Coming Soon

THE CENTER

500 N Higgins Ave, Ste 105 (Main door on Spruce)

Missoula, MT 59802 | 405 543 2224