What's Happening

Politics

Tennessee Has New Abortion and Gender-Affirming Care Laws

What's going on: This week, Tennessee Gov. Bill Lee (R) signed into law two bills aimed at hindering abortion and gender-affirming care for minors. Anyone who helps transport a minor within the state for an abortion without parental consent could face nearly a year in prison if convicted — regardless of whether or not the minor consented to the procedure. Emergency medical and transportation services are exempt under the new abortion law. Meanwhile, an adult who helps minors leave the state for gender-affirming care can be sued by the child’s parents or guardians. Both of the laws go into effect on July 1.

What it means: Tennessee is reportedly the first state in the country to penalize adults who help minors access gender-affirming care without parental consent. It’s also the second state to pass a law against helping minors get an abortion, further restricting access to the procedure in Tennessee. Both bills could still face legal challenges.

Related: The Ten Commandments Could Soon Be Displayed in Louisiana Classrooms (Axios)

Health

A New Study Found Girls Are Getting Their First Periods At Younger Ages

What's going on: A study of more than 71,000 people born between 1950 and 2005 revealed girls have been getting their periods earlier in life. Researchers found that the average age of a girl’s first menstrual period was just under 12, about half a year earlier than in previous generations. Black, Asian, Hispanic, and lower socioeconomic participants in the study reported earlier averages than white women. The study — which involved Harvard, Apple, and the National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences — analyzed cycle tracking data from participants’ iPhones and surveys. The research also indicated more young women and girls are experiencing irregular cycles for years.

What it means: Researchers say an earlier period and irregular cycles can lead to health issues later in life, including heart disease, diabetes, and certain cancers. As for why girls are getting earlier periods, scientists have pointed to factors like obesity, “forever chemicals,” and sugary foods. The study did note the findings cannot be generalized to the overall US population because the data was not a random sample, resulting in white women being overrepresented.

Related: Here’s What Your Period Blood Can Tell You About Your Cycle and Health (theSkimm)

US News

It's Official: The Pandas Are Coming Back

What's going on: Yesterday, the National Zoo in Washington DC revived the panda craze more than six months after saying goodbye to its giant pandas. The zoo said it secured a new agreement with China to bring a duo of adult pandas, Bao Li and Qing Bao, back to its facilities by the end of the year. The black and white furry friends are slated to stay in DC through April 2034 for an annual $1 million fee paid to the China Wildlife Conservation Association to support research and conservation efforts in China.

What it means: Since their first arrival in 1972, Chinese pandas have been a symbol of the US-China relationship. Diplomatic tensions over trade, Taiwan, and spy balloons have put a strain on panda loan agreements. But yesterday's announcement could be a sign of a bamboo branch from Chinese President Xi Jinping, who suggested during a trip to California last year that the animals would indeed make a return.

Related: Pandas Are Coming to the West Coast Too (CBS)