On October 13, a rule from the Trump administration will take effect, prohibiting federal funding for gender-affirming care for children and youth under Medicaid and CHIP. This includes treatments such as puberty blockers, hormones, and surgeries, although such surgeries are rare among minors.
The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) stated that this decision was based on a review by the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), which reportedly found significant evidence gaps and safety concerns regarding these interventions for children.
However, major medical organizations advocate for gender-affirming care as safe and effective, noting that it can improve mental health outcomes. The National Alliance on Mental Illness highlighted that denying such care could worsen mental health issues and increase suicide risks. The rule does not affect federal mental health services for children.
This policy aligns with a broader trend among Republican lawmakers to restrict healthcare for transgender individuals, particularly as the midterm elections approach. President Trump has publicly supported this rule, linking it to the Republican party's electoral strategy. Currently, 27 states have enacted similar restrictions on gender-affirming care for minors