NEW YORK – On Monday, Letitia James, the Attorney General of New York, informed hospitals that ceasing the provision of gender-affirming care for individuals under 19 years old would be against state law. This response came in light of an executive order signed by former President Donald Trump, which seeks to limit federal funding for such medical treatments.
In her communication, James emphasized to healthcare providers that neglecting to offer these vital services would breach New York’s anti-discrimination statutes. “Regardless of the availability of federal funding, we write to further remind you of your obligations to comply with New York State laws,” her correspondence stated, underscoring the state’s commitment to protecting the rights of minors seeking gender-affirming care.
Last week, Trump signed an executive order mandating that agencies ensure hospitals receiving federal research and education grants terminate practices he described as “the chemical and surgical mutilation of children.” The order’s terminology, which included terms like “maiming,” “sterilizing,” and “mutilation,” stands in stark contrast to the established practices surrounding gender-affirming care in the U.S.
James’ letter coincided with reports from some hospitals in Colorado, Virginia, and Washington, D.C., which indicated they were pausing gender-affirming treatments for youth as they assessed the impact of the executive order. The White House commented on Monday that the executive order is “already having its intended effect,” hinting at the broader implications of the policy.
A representative from the Greater New York Hospital Association noted that they had been actively engaging with member hospitals regarding the new executive order on gender-affirming care. Brian Conway, in an email, mentioned, “We are collaboratively working through every aspect of the EO to determine its legal and clinical implications. That work is ongoing.”
While gender-affirming medical treatment for transgender youth is not widespread, it has become a focal point of political contention. Recent research indicates that fewer than 1 in 1,000 adolescents in the U.S. with commercial insurance received puberty blockers or hormone therapy during a five-year span, highlighting the limited accessibility of such critical healthcare services amid ongoing debates.
