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

We demand immediate passage of the Trans Protection & Care Package—A8841/S6377 (gender-affirming care access), A4730 (state contractor trans healthcare), S6133 (domestic violence study focused on Black trans women), and A8382 (gender-neutral parentage). The crisis is urgent. Trans people face an epidemic of violence—since 2013, at least 399 trans and gender non-conforming people have been victims of fatal violence nationwide. Black trans women are disproportionately impacted. Trans people experience unemployment at three times the general rate and poverty at 29%, rising to 38.5% for Black trans adults. These bills save lives. A8841/S6377 creates a dedicated state fund for gender-affirming care—critical as the Trump administration cuts hospitals off from Medicare if they provide such care. A4730 leverages state contracting power to expand private insurance access. S6133 would finally provide data on domestic violence in the transgender community, with a focus on Black trans women. A8382 ensures trans parents and LGBTQIA+ families have legal recognition. To those who say this is too expensive: The cost of inaction—lost lives, lost workers, lost families—is far higher. This is a grassroots demand. Disability rights, faith, and LGBTQIA+ organizations across the state are mobilizing. In 2026, primaries will be decided by who acts.