On January 28, 2025, President Donald Trump issued an executive order prohibiting gender transition procedures for individuals under 19 years of age. The order refers to such procedures as “chemical and surgical mutilation” and states that the United States will not fund, sponsor, promote, assist, or support the transition of a child from one sex to another.
Definition of Prohibited Procedures
The executive order defines “chemical and surgical mutilation” to include:
- The use of puberty blockers to delay the onset or progression of normally timed puberty in individuals who do not identify as their biological sex.
- The administration of sex hormones, such as androgen blockers, estrogen, progesterone, or testosterone, to align an individual’s physical appearance with an identity differing from their biological sex.
- Surgical procedures that attempt to transform an individual’s physical appearance to align with an identity differing from their biological sex or that attempt to alter or remove an individual’s sexual organs to minimize or destroy their natural biological functions.
Critique of WPATH Guidance
The order criticizes the World Professional Association for Transgender Health (WPATH), stating that its guidance “lacks scientific integrity.” It directs federal agencies to rescind or amend all policies relying on WPATH guidance. Additionally, the Health and Human Services Secretary is tasked with reviewing existing literature on best practices for promoting the health of children presenting with gender dysphoria or other identity-based confusion.
Support from Lawmakers
Senator Tommy Tuberville (R-AL) expressed support for the executive order, stating that allowing young people to undergo life-altering, irreversible procedures is “pure insanity.” He emphasized the importance of protecting children from such practices and commended President Trump’s leadership in ending them.
