A federal appeals court has ruled that Florida can proceed with its lawsuit against the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) regarding the organization’s public statements on pediatric gender treatments for minors.
Background of the Lawsuit
The lawsuit, filed by Florida Attorney General James Uthmeier in December 2025, alleges that the AAP promoted pediatric gender treatments as safe and reversible without sufficient scientific evidence. Uthmeier announced the development on social media, stating that the appeals court decision allows Florida to resume its legal action in state court.
The AAP had argued that allowing the lawsuit to proceed would cause irreparable harm to the organization. However, a coalition of 21 other state attorneys general filed an amicus brief in support of Florida’s appeal, criticizing the Illinois district court’s handling of Florida state law.
Implications of the Ruling
The current ruling enables Florida to resume its legal battle in state court, while the 7th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals continues to consider the AAP’s overall appeal. The decision has significant implications for the debate on pediatric gender treatments and the role of state governments in regulating these procedures.
Original reporting: Tampa Free Press — read the source article.
