Dear [Your Elected Official],

<p>Parents should never lose custody of their children for refusing to affirm gender transitions. Yet, in states like Indiana, Ohio, and California, courts have removed children from their homes when parents rejected gender-affirming care. Here in North Carolina, social workers are instructed to assess whether parents are “maltreating” children by not affirming gender identity, creating a dangerous pathway for child removal.</p> <p>The <strong>Parents Protection Act</strong> would ensure that parents cannot lose custody or face prosecution for refusing gender-affirming interventions. These treatments carry serious risks, including psychological harm, sterility, and even increased cancer risks. No parent should be forced to approve irreversible procedures, especially when many oppose them based on religious or medical concerns.</p> <p>Without this protection, more families could be torn apart, worsening the foster care crisis and eroding parental rights. <strong>Please support the Parents Protection Act to ensure North Carolina safeguards families and upholds the fundamental right of parents to make medical decisions for their children.</strong></p>