Reject SB4638: Protect Access to Gender-Affirming Care for Military Families

Senate Bill 4638 seeks to deny essential gender-affirming healthcare to transgender youth by prohibiting the use of Tricare funds to cover puberty blockers, hormone therapy, and gender-affirming surgeries for minors. Denying access to this vital care represents a violation of the basic human rights and dignity of transgender young people. Gender-affirming care is medically necessary, evidence-based treatment supported by major medical organizations. It dramatically improves mental health outcomes and reduces risk of suicide for transgender youth. Furthermore, delaying treatment can cause irreversible changes that transgender individuals did not consent to. This discriminatory policy singles out a vulnerable population and deprives them of critical medical resources. I urge you to reject this unethical ban and instead take action to expand affordable access to gender-affirming care for all who require it, regardless of age.