Louisiana is the first U.S. state to permit judges to order surgical castration for offenders convicted of specific sex crimes against children, following a bill signed into law by Republican Governor Jeff Landry.

The law, effective August 1, allows judges to mandate surgical castration for those guilty of aggravated sex crimes, including rape, incest, and molestation of children under 13.

While supporters believe this measure will deter such crimes, opponents argue it violates the U.S. Constitution’s ban on “cruel and unusual” punishment and anticipate legal challenges.

Louisiana joins several states that already allow chemical castration for certain sex offenders, but it is unique in permitting judges to impose surgical castration, the Associated Press reported.

The law applies only to crimes committed on or after August 1.

Written by B.C. Begley