Donald Trump has signed a new executive order further restricting access to transgender healthcare for minors. The order bans federal funding for gender-affirming treatments, including puberty blockers, hormone therapy, and surgeries for individuals under 18. The move aligns with Trump’s broader push to roll back LGBTQ+ rights and enforce stricter regulations on medical care related to gender identity.
Supporters of the order argue it protects children from making irreversible medical decisions, while critics see it as an attack on transgender youth and their rights to healthcare. Medical organizations, including the American Academy of Pediatrics, have repeatedly stated that gender-affirming care is essential for the mental health and well-being of trans minors.
The executive order also threatens legal consequences for healthcare providers who violate the restrictions, adding pressure to hospitals and clinics that offer gender-affirming services. Some states with protections for transgender individuals have vowed to challenge the order in court, setting up a legal battle over federal authority on medical care policies.
This latest action reflects the Trump administration’s continued focus on conservative social policies. With growing opposition from advocacy groups and Democratic lawmakers, the executive order is likely to face significant challenges in the coming months.
