Oppose Using Trans Healthcare as Bargaining Chip in Budget Negotiations

I am deeply concerned about the ongoing government shutdown negotiations and the alarming proposal to ban federal funding for gender-affirming care nationwide. This critical healthcare issue should not be used as a bargaining chip in budget discussions. The Trump administration has already finalized a rule set to take effect on July 1, 2026, that would bar nonprofits providing gender-affirming care to minors from qualifying for Public Service Loan Forgiveness. Additionally, two more proposed rules would prohibit federal Medicaid reimbursement for gender-affirming care for anyone under 19 and prevent hospitals treating transgender minors from receiving any Medicaid funds. These measures, if enacted, would have devastating consequences for transgender youth across the country. Numerous studies have shown that gender-affirming care significantly improves mental health outcomes and reduces suicide risk among transgender youth. By restricting access to this essential care, we risk jeopardizing the well-being of an already vulnerable population. The mere threat of these rules has already caused many hospitals and organizations to choose compliance over resistance, creating a chilling effect that could make gender-affirming care inaccessible across much of the country. This is not just a matter of policy; it's a matter of life and death for many young Americans. I urge you to take a stand against using transgender healthcare as a negotiation tool in the budget process. Please oppose any measures that would restrict access to gender-affirming care and instead support policies that protect the rights and well-being of all Americans, regardless of their gender identity. The health and lives of transgender youth should not be sacrificed for political expediency.