Congressman Pat Harrigan of North Carolina’s 10th District voted in favor of H.R. 3492, a bill that establishes federal standards to prevent minors from undergoing permanent medical procedures before they are legally and developmentally able to consent.
The legislation, which passed the House and now moves to the Senate, aims to prioritize children’s long-term well-being over political or social pressures by restricting irreversible medical interventions for those under 18. It includes exceptions for cases involving serious medical conditions, congenital disorders, or life-threatening situations where immediate treatment is necessary.
“This should not be controversial. Kids deserve time, care, and protection, not permanent medical decisions they can’t fully understand,” said Congressman Harrigan. “There are legitimate medical emergencies where doctors have to act, and this bill protects that. But outside of that, no child should be pushed into irreversible procedures because of ideology or pressure. Our job is to protect kids first and let them grow up before making life-altering choices.”
Harrigan called on his colleagues in the Senate to address the matter with “clarity and responsibility,” emphasizing the importance of common-sense safeguards for children and families.
Pat Harrigan was elected in 2024 after defeating Ralph R. Scott, Jr., receiving 57.5% of the vote compared to Scott’s 38.2%.