Trump Signs Executive Order Against Transgender Healthcare for Minors

On Tuesday, Donald Trump enacted a new executive order targeting the transgender community, which specifically bans gender transitions for individuals younger than 19 years old. The order clearly states that the U.S. government will neither fund nor promote what it refers to as the "transition" of a child from one gender to another, with the claim that it will uphold all laws that restrict or prohibit these medically invasive procedures.

The executive order identifies “child” as someone under 19 and defines “pediatric” in the context of medical care for children. Notably, it includes terms such as “chemical and surgical mutilation,” referring to treatments like puberty blockers, hormone therapy, and surgical interventions, all of which are typically considered forms of gender-affirming care.

Furthermore, the order accuses medical professionals of harming impressionable children under the guise of transitioning, contending that the trend represents a dangerous development in U.S. history. It expresses intent to eliminate federal support for these medical procedures and mandates that programs such as Medicaid and military insurance exclude related coverage.

Historically, many Medicaid programs in various states have provided for gender-affirming care, but this newly signed order signals potential legal battles ahead. This directive aligns with other recent actions by Trump's administration, which aim to reverse protections for transgender individuals established under the Biden administration.

Additionally, Trump signed an order on Monday targeting what he terms “gender radicalism” within the military. This directive is expected to revise existing policies on transgender service members, suggesting a likely reinstatement of a ban on their service. Trump's previous efforts during his first presidency included attempts at prohibiting transgender individuals from serving, but those policies were largely undone when Biden took office.

Amid these developments, the U.S. State Department has suspended processing for passport applications that include “X” gender markers and any changes regarding gender identity. This decision is based on an earlier order from Trump aimed at reaffirming what he describes as “biological truth.”

These actions have spurred significant opposition from the transgender community and civil rights advocates. In light of Trump’s military order, some transgender service members have initiated legal challenges, arguing that the order infringes on their right to equal protection as guaranteed by the fifth amendment.

The American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) has condemned the executive order, suggesting it serves not to protect individuals but rather to exclude transgender people from public life. The ACLU is currently evaluating the implications of the order to determine any immediate effects versus those requiring further agency actions.