1. United States
2. N.C.
3. Letter

The recent executive order by President Trump to halt federal funding for gender-affirming care for transgender youth under 19 is a concerning development that threatens to undermine access to essential medical treatment. As families and doctors who have filed suit highlight, this policy singles out and discriminates against transgender individuals by prohibiting federal funds for care when it is used for gender transition, even though the same treatments are allowed when not related to gender identity. Gender-affirming care is recognized as medically necessary and appropriate treatment by major medical associations based on extensive research. Denying access to this care can have devastating impacts on the mental health and wellbeing of transgender youth. It violates the rights of parents to make healthcare decisions for their children and infringes on non-discrimination protections. The government should not be intruding into the doctor-patient relationship or limiting access to evidence-based care supported by medical experts. Transgender youth deserve the same access to quality healthcare as anyone else. Maintaining federal funding support for gender-affirming care is crucial to ensuring these vulnerable young people can receive the care they need without discrimination. This harmful policy must be blocked to protect the health and rights of transgender Americans.