NDP Introduces Gender-Affirming Care Legislation

Halifax -The NDP will introduce legislation today to establish an Advisory Committee on gender-affirming health care. This legislation builds on the NDP’s work raising 2SLGBTQ+ issues and MLA Lisa Lachance’s successful efforts to have the Legislature both raise the trans flag last week, and light up Province House in the colours of the flag.

“Gender-affirming care is life-saving care. Trans and non-binary people have health needs that are not currently being addressed in Nova Scotia. Much work has been done in our community to outline these needs and it’s time for the government to catch up,” said Lachance, NDP spokesperson for 2SLGBTQ+ Affairs. “I urge the government to consider this legislation and make sure that there is a clear process to improving access to care, which includes the voices of trans and non-binary people.”

The legislation would require the government to create an advisory committee on gender-affirming care, which would report back to the Legislature on ways to improve access and wait times for care.

“Many people are stuck waiting for years and jumping through hoops to get the care they need. Many have to travel outside the province to receive that care. We need solutions here at home,” said Lachance.

Lachance is the first openly genderqueer MLA and Deputy Speaker in Nova Scotia.

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