Dear [Your Elected Official],

<p>I urge you to vote NO on HB1665 on Wednesday in the Health Committee.</p> <p><br />Relationships between health care providers and patients are built on trust and honesty. That is especially true for children and youth. This bill compromises that relationship and increases risks for young patients. In an attempt to silence and isolate questions about gender and sexuality, this bill prevents all children and youth from receiving developmentally-appropriate health care. </p> <p><br />For example, the American Academy of Pediatrics recommends pediatricians reserve some confidential time for patients in well visits, as early as age 11, to build trust. They include age and developmentally appropriate questions about sex and risk, in general. They emphasize how important this is to also address sexual abuse and risk factors for prevention, particularly in unsafe or unsupportive home environments. Children and youth will miss the opportunity for education, prevention, and, when needed, lifesaving medical and mental health services if this bill is adopted.</p> <p><br />Thank you for considering my views.</p> <p> </p> <p> </p>