- United States
- Va.
- Letter
In the face of President Trump's executive order aimed at restricting federal funding for gender-affirming care for transgender youth, it is imperative that state governments take proactive measures to safeguard the rights and well-being of this vulnerable population. Virginia should follow the principled stance taken by New York Attorney General Letitia James, upholding state anti-discrimination laws to ensure hospitals continue providing essential gender-affirming treatments. Denying medically necessary care to transgender individuals, particularly minors, can have severe detrimental effects on their mental health and overall well-being. It perpetuates stigma and discrimination against a group that already faces significant challenges. Access to gender-affirming care has been shown to substantially improve the mental health outcomes and quality of life for transgender individuals. While the federal government may seek to curtail funding, states have a moral and legal obligation to protect the civil rights of all their residents, regardless of gender identity or expression. Virginia should issue clear directives to healthcare providers, affirming their duty to continue offering gender-affirming services in compliance with state laws prohibiting discrimination based on gender identity. Such a move would send a powerful message of support to the transgender community and uphold the principles of equal protection under the law.