Alberta Invokes Notwithstanding Clause to Uphold Legislation Limiting Gender Transition for Minors

Alberta Invokes Notwithstanding Clause to Uphold Legislation Limiting Gender Transition for Minors
Alberta Premier Danielle Smith speaks in Calgary on May 16, 2025. The Canadian Press/Jeff McIntosh
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Alberta’s UCP government has tabled legislation invoking the notwithstanding clause to shield three laws passed last year, which deal with gender‑transition issues for minors, from legal challenges.

Bill 9, tabled Nov. 18, uses the notwithstanding clause to uphold laws that bar those under 18 from gender transition surgery, restrict the teaching of gender identity topics in schools, and limit participation in female sport competitions solely to those born as biological females.