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The Trump administration has finalized a policy to eliminate federal funding for gender-affirming care through Medicaid and the Children’s Health Insurance Program, effective October 13. Critics argue the rule will disproportionately harm vulnerable children by restricting access to healthcare services and represents ideological rather than evidence-based policymaking.
The proposal, initially introduced in December, generated nearly 35,000 public comments, with approximately 90 percent opposing the change. Opponents point to medical research supporting the safety and effectiveness of gender-affirming care, noting that the administration’s justification relies on selective citations while omitting more recent comprehensive studies demonstrating positive outcomes.
Legal experts anticipate court challenges could delay or prevent implementation of the rule. Federal courts have previously blocked related administration actions, with judges criticizing officials for disregarding established law. Additionally, states retain the option to use their own Medicaid funds to continue providing these services to eligible children.
If enacted as scheduled, the rule would require children currently receiving treatment through these programs to gradually discontinue their medications over six months. Healthcare advocates warn the policy will increase suffering among already vulnerable populations and may fuel additional state-level restrictions on gender-affirming care.
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Originally reported by Theguardian →
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