NEW YORK, NY, August, 13 2026—The Center responds to the Trump administration’s ban on using Medicaid funds for gender-affirming care.

On August 11, the administration published a final rule prohibiting federal Medicaid funds from being used to provide medically necessary care to transgender youth under age 18 (and Children’s Health Insurance Program [CHIP] funds for those under age 19). 

While coverage in New York State is mandated under the Transgender Shield Law, the state would be required to cover 100% of care costs, leading to major financial strain. We urge New York State to fight back against this ruling.

For transgender children and parents wondering what comes next, The Center is here to help. Our team can help you navigate the options available.

This administration continues to target transgender children and their families, preventing them from making personal decisions for their health and well-being. This rule specifically affects families on Medicaid, who already face significant barriers to care because they are low-income. 

To be clear: this rule is based on ideology, not science. Every major medical and mental health organization—including the American Medical Association, the American Academy of Pediatrics, and the American Psychological Association—agrees that gender-affirming care is medically necessary for transgender people. 

Gender-affirming care saves lives. Removing access to that care puts them in danger.

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