Several transgender minors and their families filed a lawsuit in Maryland on Tuesday challenging US Pres. Donald Trump's recent executive order revoking funding to entities providing transgender medical procedures to those under 19.
Among the treatments banned by Trump's order, called "Protecting Children from Chemical and Surgical Mutilation," are puberty blockers, hormone therapies, and surgeries. The American Civil Liberties Union and Lambda Legal represent the plaintiffs.
The plaintiffs — two trans adults, the families of five trans children, and two LGBTQ+ advocacy groups — claim that the order has disrupted their healthcare as hospitals across America have begun canceling appointments for gender transition treatments.
In a devastating blow to transgender youth, Trump's order has sent shockwaves through communities already struggling to protect their children. Beyond eliminating federal funding for such health care, the policy marks the beginning of a broader assault on trans rights. For teenagers discovering their identity in this hostile climate, parents and advocates are seeking ways to shield them from mounting psychological and physical threats.
Donald Trump is making a significant, life-saving impact by combating the widespread promotion of dangerous child procedures. By curbing access to puberty blockers and surgeries, he's preventing lasting physical and emotional harm. His push for stricter regulations and accountability for medical professionals offers hope for vulnerable teens, ensuring they receive proper mental health care rather than irreversible treatments.