A proposed restriction on gender-affirming care for transgender individuals was surprisingly excluded from President Trump's "One Big, Beautiful Bill." The original bill aimed to ban Medicaid coverage for gender-affirming care for transgender minors, but this language was removed in a compromise.
The bill was passed through budget reconciliation, which required it to relate to federal spending. The Senate Parliamentarian ruled the gender-affirming care language did not meet this requirement. Republicans initially attempted to include the language, which would have forced Democrats to challenge it.
Senator Ron Wyden, a supporter of LGBTQ+ rights, was prepared to raise a point of order if needed.
The final bill passed without the restriction. Representative Mark Takano, of the Congressional Equality Caucus, celebrated the win.
5 Comments
Leonardo
It’s refreshing to see that the needs of LGBTQ+ individuals are being considered in legislation. This is a step forward in equality.
Michelangelo
The removal of this provision proves that people are starting to understand the importance of gender-affirming care for mental health.
Donatello
Removing restrictions shows that we are listening to the needs of the community. Every child should have access to gender-affirming care.
Raphael
This is a huge win for transgender rights! Kids deserve the opportunity to explore their identities safely and with access to care.
Donatello
Senator Wyden’s support for this is disappointing. Caring for our youth should come before political allegiance!