Toronto 
Alberta government is rolling out a series of policies spanning multiple ministries, focusing on preserving the autonomy of youth in making decisions about their biological sex, enhancing safety and inclusivity in sports for women and girls, and boosting health and social support for the transgender community.
Per the news release here are the highlights:
Enhanced Health Services: To address the unique health needs of transgender Albertans, the government is planning to enhance local medical expertise in transgender care. This involves recruiting specialists in pre- and post-operative care to Alberta, eliminating the current need for individuals to seek care in Quebec. A private registry of medical professionals in this specialty will also be developed, streamlining access to essential healthcare services for transgender residents.
Restrictions on Gender Reassignment Procedures for Minors: For minors, the government has set forth clear guidelines:
- All gender reassignment surgeries for minors aged 17 and under will be prohibited.
- The use of puberty blockers and hormone therapies for the purpose of gender reassignment or affirmation will not be permitted for children aged 15 and under, except for those who have already commenced treatment.
- Mature teens, aged 16 and 17, may only choose to commence puberty blockers and hormone therapies for gender reassignment and affirmation purposes with parental, physician and psychologist approval.
Education System Reforms: Parents will play a significant role in their children’s education on gender identity and sexual orientation, with mandates for parental notification and consent for related instruction and any changes to the use of names or pronouns in schools:
- Parents must be notified and opt in to any instance when a teacher provides formal instruction on subject matter involving gender identity, sexual orientation or human sexuality.
- All third-party resource materials or presentations related to gender identity, sexual orientation or human sexuality available in Alberta classrooms must be pre-approved by the Ministry of Education to ensure they are age-appropriate.
- Parents must consent for their child aged 15 and under to alter their name or pronouns used by school teachers, administration and other educational staff.
- Parents must be notified for their child aged 16 or 17 to alter their name or pronouns used by school teachers, administration and other educational staff.
Support for Families: A counselling pilot project is being developed to assist transgender youth and their families in addressing complex issues and discussions.
Inclusivity in Sports: Efforts are underway to ensure fair competition and participation in sports, with the creation of biological female-only and co-ed or other gender-neutral divisions to accommodate all athletes, including transgender individuals.
