A federal judge has temporarily blocked President Trump's executive order that aimed to limit access to gender-affirming care for transgender individuals under 19. The order sought to restrict federal funding for medical facilities providing such care, including puberty blockers, hormone therapy, and surgeries. Trump characterized these treatments as "chemical and surgical mutilation of children," though the order seemingly didn't apply to similar procedures for non-transgender minors.
Image caption: Trans pride flags at a gathering for International Transgender Day of Visibility.
Judge Brendan A. Hurson's 14-day restraining order mandates the release of any withheld funds and notification of all relevant agencies. The ruling also blocked a provision from a separate executive order that sought to prevent federal funds from being used to "promote gender ideology."
This legal challenge, initiated by transgender young adults and families of transgender youth in early February, alleges violations of constitutional rights, including the Due Process and Equal Protection Clauses, as well as the First Amendment. They argue the orders discriminate against transgender individuals, a demographic estimated to comprise less than 1% of the population over 13.
This executive order is the latest in a series of Trump administration actions affecting the transgender community. Previous measures include restrictions on transgender individuals serving in the military, limitations on legal recognition of transgender people, and obstacles to changing gender markers on federal documents.
