The Trump administration has announced a new rule ending federal Medicaid and CHIP funding for gender-affirming care for children and youth. The policy, scheduled to take effect on October 13, prohibits the use of federal dollars for treatments such as puberty blockers, hormone therapy, and surgical procedures.
Administration officials stated the decision follows a review of national and international research. The Department of Health and Human Services claims there are significant gaps in evidence regarding the safety and effectiveness of these interventions for minors, leading to the decision to withhold federal taxpayer funding.
While federal support is ending, state-level healthcare programs may continue to cover these treatments using state dollars. The rule specifically excludes mental health services from these funding restrictions, allowing federal coverage for those areas to remain in place.
Major medical organizations have historically supported gender-affirming care as safe and effective when performed according to clinical guidelines. Advocacy groups warn that restricting access to this care may negatively impact mental health outcomes and increase suicide risks among transgender youth.
This move aligns with broader legislative efforts by Republican lawmakers to limit healthcare and legal protections for transgender individuals. President Donald Trump has linked the policy shift to the upcoming midterm elections, urging voters to consider this stance when heading to the polls in November.