Texas has launched an investigation into whether Dell Children's Medical Center is unlawfully performing gender-transition surgeries on minors, Attorney General Ken Paxton said May 5.
Mr. Paxton has given Dell Children's 30 days to provide various documents related to the Austin-based hospital's use of puberty blockers, gender-transitioning procedures and counseling sessions for pediatric patients.
"There have been a number of recent reports about potentially illegal activity at Dell Children's Medical Center, and this investigation aims to uncover the truth," Mr. Paxton said in a May 5 news release.
The investigation comes after right-wing group Project Veritas issued a report in late April, alleging the hospital was offering puberty blockers and other gender-affirming care.
In an April 28 statement, Dell Children's — part of St. Louis-based Ascension — said it prohibits surgery and prescribing hormone therapy as a treatment for children with gender dysphoria.
"We are conducting a thorough review of this situation," the hospital said. "To the extent that care provided at our clinic may have been inconsistent with our organization's position on this important issue, we intend to take appropriate action."
Gender-affirming care is not illegal in Texas, though Mr. Paxton and Gov. Greg Abbott have aimed to label it as child abuse in the state.