SEJC Update: Protect Trans Youth Healthcare

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SEJC Update from Deb Cruz: Protect Trans Youth Healthcare

The federal government has proposed two new rules that could make it virtually impossible for transgender youth to get the health care they need. These proposed rules would:
Block Medicaid and CHIP funding for gender-affirming care for transgender youth; (https://public-inspection.federalregister.gov/2025-23464.pdf) and
Punish hospitals and providers that offer this care by threatening their ability to participate in Medicare and Medicaid altogether (https://public-inspection.federalregister.gov/2025-23465.pdf).
If finalized, these rules would block hospitals and doctors from providing gender-affirming care to youth across the country. They would also take away public funding like Medicaid and CHIP from kids who rely on that coverage to access best practice, medically necessary care.
Furthermore, not only would these proposals restrict youths’ access to gender-affirming care in the Medicaid and CHIP systems, but because almost every hospital in America receives this funding alongside Medicare, every one of them would have to cut off access to that care to continue receiving federal funding for other patients. This will impact all families  seeking care for their trans children, regardless if they are doing so with public insurance, private insurance, or their own funds.
These rules are not final yet — and we have a chance to stop them. You can help by sending a public comment telling the government why this care matters and why these rules would hurt young people. Comments are due within the next 60 days and will not be reviewed if submitted after the deadline, so please act soon.
Additional support for writing your submission
Our coalition partners have created tools to help you submit strong, personal public comments that show how these rules would cause harm and limit access to affirming care. Unique lived experiences make the most powerful impact and strengthen our ability to influence these rules and challenge them later. Consider using this resource page alongside our example comment below to help craft your story, highlight the benefits of this care, and clearly state why you oppose these rules. Your voice matters — now is the time to use it.