Senate Approves Defense Bill with Gender Care Ban

The U.S. Congress has passed the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), a $895 billion defense budget that includes a controversial provision banning military healthcare from covering gender-affirming treatments for minors. The bill saw bipartisan support, passing the House with a 281-140 vote and the Senate with an 85-14 vote, despite significant dissent from Democrats who argue it undermines the rights of military families and disproportionately affects LGBTQ+ youth. Proponents of the ban, including House Speaker Mike Johnson, claim it is necessary to protect children from experimental treatments, while critics, including health experts, argue that such care is essential for the well-being of transgender youth. The NDAA also includes significant pay raises for military personnel and investments in military housing and technology. The bill now awaits President Biden's signature, with the White House yet to state its official position. This year's NDAA marks the 64th consecutive year of Congressional approval, though the addition of the gender-affirming care ban has sparked considerable backlash.