The definitions of child abuse and neglect and the temporary emergency jurisdiction of a court in this state over a child at risk of receiving certain prohibited gender transitioning or gender reassignment procedures or treatments

Texas House Bill 3478, introduced in 2025, aimed to redefine child abuse and neglect to include certain gender-affirming medical and psychological treatments for minors. It proposed granting Texas courts temporary emergency jurisdiction over children at risk of receiving these treatments, even if they were from out of state. The bill also sought to protect parents who refused to affirm their child's gender identity or sexual orientation from being accused of abuse. Ultimately, the bill did not progress beyond the committee stage and was not enacted into law.

Supporters of HB3478 argued that the bill was necessary to protect children from undergoing irreversible medical procedures related to gender transition. They believed that such treatments could have long-term negative effects and that the bill would safeguard parental rights by preventing parents from being accused of abuse for not supporting their child's gender identity or sexual orientation.

Opponents of HB3478 contended that the bill targeted transgender youth and restricted access to essential gender-affirming care. They argued that the legislation could lead to increased mental health issues among transgender minors and infringed upon the rights of parents and medical professionals to make informed decisions about a child's well-being. Critics also expressed concern that the bill could deter families from seeking necessary medical care for their children.