In May 2023, transgender young people and their families gathered outside the Supreme Court after the Trans Youth Prom event in Washington, DC. This took place as the Trump administration finalized a health care policy. The new rule prevents federal funding from covering gender-affirming care for children under Medicaid or the Children’s Health Insurance Plan.
A California mother, known only by her initials A.W., expressed her concerns. With her family depending on Medicaid after her husband lost his job, the policy changes significantly affect them. Despite previously not needing assistance, they now rely heavily on it, including food aid.
A.W. says, “Every time you wake up, it feels like — what’s going to happen next? What else are they going to take away from us and our kids, to keep them thriving?”
Research by KFF shows that a small population of around 130,000 transgender minors might be affected by this rule. Many states have already banned gender-affirming care due to recent state laws.
The rule’s impact depends on whether states choose to use their finances to cover what the federal funds no longer will, explains Lindsey Dawson of KFF. Currently, the response of states remains uncertain. The Center for Health Policy and the Law at Georgetown comments on the rule’s significance. They state it’s uncommon for the federal government to exclude a specific patient demographic from funding.
A report titled “Wolves in White Coats” was published by the Trump administration following the rule’s announcement. It features stories of de-transitioned individuals and claims medical malpractice by some healthcare providers. None of the report’s authors were government employees, and many were aligned with anti-trans advocacy.
A.W. describes her family’s journey as thoughtful and family-driven. When her child began showing signs of a different gender identity, they consulted therapists and a gender clinic. She emphasizes that decisions regarding her child’s care are made with careful consideration and supported by California’s Medi-Cal program.
A.W. says, “The obsession is so weird to me.”
Jennifer Levi, a senior attorney at GLAD Law, predicts the new rule will face legal challenges. Many states led by Democrats have also pledged to counteract the rule by seeking court injunctions.
California plans to continue funding gender-affirming care despite federal cutbacks, offering some relief to families like A.W.’s. Yet, concerns persist. Parents now have to plan travels carefully, considering states with anti-trans regulations.
A.W. says, “It’s not normal to live like this. These are just kids who want to thrive.”