The Federal Trade Commission, under Chairman Andrew Ferguson—a Trump appointee—hosted a July 9 workshop examining whether “gender-affirming care” for minors constitutes unfair and deceptive medical practices. Detransitioners, whistleblowers, ethicists, and parents shared emotional testimonies. One panelist declared, “It’s not healthcare—it’s blatant consumer fraud,” describing irreversible treatments administered to children unable to fully consent.
Ferguson emphasized the FTC’s consumer protection mission, asserting the agency has the authority—and duty—to target misinformation in medical claims. He hinted at enforcement, stating that if providers made “material misstatements,” the FTC would bring legal action under Section 5 of the FTC Act.
Justice Department’s Chad Mizelle confirmed nearly 20 subpoenas issued to gender care providers, citing potential health-care fraud and false statements. He encouraged whistleblowers to come forward.
Despite protest from some FTC staff, who warned the agency was overreaching and risking politicization, spokespersons defended the move—asserting it’s vital to protect children from deceptive medical practices.
This workshop complements President Trump’s earlier executive orders prioritizing the protection of minors from gender-transition treatments. The FTC plans to gather additional public input before moving forward with potential legal enforcement or rulemaking—the next steps in a broader strategy to hold medical providers accountable.
