PA FREEDOM CAUCUS MAKES GOOD ON PROMISE TO OPPOSE PENN STATE FUNDING DUE TO PEDIATRIC PUBERTY BLOCKER POLICY

Harrisburg, PA- House Bill 1456, a bill to provide over $259 million to Penn State University, failed to reach the two-thirds majority threshold required for final passage in the Pennsylvania House of Representatives following an investigation by the Pennsylvania Freedom Caucus that uncovered the prescription of experimental puberty blockers to children as young as five years-old.

The Penn State Children’s Hospital website reads: “The Gender Health Clinic at Penn State Health Children’s Hospital provides comprehensive, gender-affirming care for children, adolescents, and young adults up to age 25…including permanent hormonal therapies.” The Gender Health Clinic also provides referrals for gender-transition surgery for minors.

“The Pennsylvania Freedom caucus made it clear at the beginning of the budget process that we would lead the opposition to taxpayer funding of Penn State if any policy that endangers the health and welfare of our children remained in place,” said Rep. David Rowe (R-Snyder/Union/Juniata/Mifflin). “The Democrats failure to reach the two-thirds majority required for final passage shows that we have broad support for our effort to protect Pennsylvania’s children and we look forward to continuing the dialogue with Penn State to see these harmful policies abolished.”

 “As we explained in May, PAFC legislators will not be party to funding organizations engaging in experimental treatments on children.” stated Pennsylvania Freedom Caucus Chair Rep. Dawn Keefer (R-York). “Today’s vote against giving Penn State $260 million of taxpayer dollars demonstrated our steadfast commitment. Our children deserve better.”