House Expands Ban on Transgender Care Funding

The House of Representatives narrowly passed a Republican-backed bill that bans Medicaid and ACA plans from covering gender-affirming health care for transgender people of all ages, after a late-night amendment expanded the restriction to include adults. The bill also introduces significant Medicaid funding cuts, new work requirements for beneficiaries, and other limits on social safety net programs. Hundreds of thousands of transgender Americans—many relying on Medicaid—could lose access to medically necessary care such as hormone therapy and surgeries, despite strong support for these treatments from major medical associations. LGBTQ+ advocates and healthcare experts warn of severe health and economic harm for vulnerable groups, while supporters contend the measure protects taxpayer dollars and reflects conservative principles. The legislation, which has drawn intense controversy and legal scrutiny, now heads to the Senate, where changes are possible. The move comes amid a larger trend of state and federal actions to restrict transgender rights and access to care.