- United States
- Ariz.
- Letter
H.R. 5894 Appropriations Restrictions Threaten Healthcare Access for LGBTQ+ Americans Within H.R. 5894, the Department of Labor, Health and Human Services, and Education Appropriations Act of 2024, are clauses prohibiting funds from being used to implement Executive Order 13988 on combating discrimination based on gender identity or sexual orientation, or for trans-affirming healthcare services like hormone therapy and gender-affirming surgeries. These provisions attempt to restrict access to healthcare for LGBTQ+ individuals through the appropriations process. All people deserve access to ethical, evidence-based medical care regardless of gender identity or sexual orientation. Using budget riders to target and discriminate against minority groups is unacceptable. The appropriations process should prioritize funding essential services equitably for all Americans without discrimination.