Administration Moves to Restrict Medicaid Funding for Gender Transition Procedures

The Trump administration declared on Tuesday that Medicaid and Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP) funds will no longer be applicable for “sex-denial” drugs or surgeries aimed at children.

“Today marks the end of federal taxpayer dollars being used for child sex-denial procedures,” stated Robert F. Kennedy Jr., the Secretary of Health and Human Services (HHS).

He elaborated, “These procedures pose significant risks and could lead to irreversible damage. The federal government will cease funding for any procedures that fail to meet the necessary evidence-based standards for children.”

According to the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS), “In line with our commitment to protect children from experimental and potentially life-altering sex-denial procedures, we are implementing this final rule.” This rule targets puberty blockers, cross-sex hormones, and surgical options for minors due to their long-term health risks and the lack of reliable evidence supporting their benefits.

Dr. Mehmet Oz, the CMS Administrator, emphasized, “Children deserve safeguarding, not experimental procedures that come with serious risks and have not proven effective. We are adhering to scientific evidence, saving taxpayer money, and, crucially, protecting our children from irreversible harm, allowing them the chance to thrive.”

CMS explained that the decision was informed by a thorough review of both domestic and international studies, which revealed considerable evidence gaps and safety concerns. The Trump administration’s stance is said to be increasingly echoed within the medical community, notably by recent shifts in policy and statements from the Society of Plastic Surgeons.

Under the finalized rule, there will be a transition period of up to six months for children who are already receiving hormone therapy funded by CHIP or Medicaid. Notably, this rule does not impact coverage for mental health services, and it is set to take effect on October 13, 2026.

President Trump expressed his approval of the decision on Truth Social, targeting Democrats who support sex-change drugs and surgeries for minors.

“Today, at my request, Dr. Mehmet Oz declared that Medicaid will stop funding hormone therapy and sex reassignment surgery for minors. We won’t finance the exposure of innocent children to these harmful surgeries that can cause permanent damage,” noted the former president.

He also remarked, “Our strong stance has already led numerous hospitals in the U.S. to discontinue what they call ‘gender-affirming care,’ and we anticipate many more will follow. Think of all the young, innocent, and perhaps confused children we are saving.”

Trump concluded with a call to recognize the issue as voters head into the November midterm elections, asserting that the Republican Party remains committed to protecting children.