The Hawaii Kidnapping Bill (HB2079, ‘Relating to Health’) poses significant legal and ethical risks, representing one of the most contentious proposals of the legislative session. It awaits Senate approval after clearing the House and controversially offers what could be seen as legal protection and sanctuary to individuals accused of kidnapping under the guise of facilitating access to gender-affirming healthcare for minors. Explicitly, the bill could be interpreted as legitimizing the interstate abduction of children by providing immunity to those who argue their actions were intended to obtain gender-affirming treatments in Hawaii, where such healthcare might be restricted in their home state. This aspect is highlighted in the bill’s text, particularly in §583A-208, where the removal of a child from legal guardians is not weighed against a petitioner if done for the purpose of accessing gender-affirming health services. Backing the bill, Oregon’s QueerDoc.com, a telemedicine gender-affirming clinic, has voiced strong support, asserting the non-negotiable nature of the science and medicine behind gender-affirming care. The clinic’s founder, identifying as nonbinary, openly expresses a personal and professional commitment to expanding access to such healthcare, potentially influencing the bill’s focus and application.
03-28 Legalized Kidnapping in Hawaii? That’s Right. Take a Listen and Make Sure You Subscribe to Lynn’s Warriors YouTube Channel #ProtectOurChildren
March 28, 2024
Blog