New York Attorney General Letitia James issued a warning to hospitals, stating that discontinuing gender-affirming care for individuals under 19 in response to President Donald Trump’s executive order would violate state law. Trump’s directive aims to curtail federal funding for hospitals that provide such treatments, calling them “chemical and surgical mutilation of children.”
James’ letter, sent Monday, reminded healthcare facilities that New York’s anti-discrimination laws require them to continue offering these services, regardless of any federal funding changes. She emphasized that hospitals refusing care to transgender minors could face legal consequences under state law. “Regardless of the availability of federal funding, we write to further remind you of your obligations to comply with New York State laws,” her letter stated.
The White House acknowledged that the executive order was “already having its intended effect.” Meanwhile, the Greater New York Hospital Association is assessing the legal and clinical impact of the order, stating that discussions with member hospitals are ongoing.
Although gender-affirming care for transgender youth is relatively rare, it has become a major political flashpoint. A recent study found that fewer than 1 in 1,000 adolescents with commercial insurance received puberty blockers or hormones over a five-year period. Supporters of such treatments argue they are critical for transgender youth’s mental health, while opponents, including Trump, assert that minors should not undergo irreversible medical procedures.
New York’s stance underscores the growing divide between states that seek to expand transgender healthcare protections and those looking to restrict them. With legal battles likely ahead, hospitals across the country are left navigating conflicting federal and state policies.