New York Attorney General Letitia James has directed hospitals across the state to continue providing gender transition procedures for minors, despite a federal executive order issued by former President Donald Trump aiming to restrict such medical treatments. The directive reinforces New York’s stance on transgender healthcare rights, placing the state in direct opposition to federal policy changes.
James assured healthcare providers that state laws protect their ability to offer transition-related services to minors, emphasizing that medical decisions should remain between patients, their families, and doctors. She argued that the federal order does not override New York’s legal framework and vowed to take legal action if necessary to defend access to care.
The move has sparked heated debate, with opponents of gender transition procedures for minors supporting the federal directive as a safeguard against what they consider irreversible medical interventions. Meanwhile, advocacy groups and medical organizations backing James’ stance argue that restricting access could harm transgender youth who rely on these treatments.
Hospitals and healthcare providers in New York are now navigating conflicting guidance at the state and federal levels, awaiting potential legal challenges that could determine the future of such procedures nationwide. As both sides prepare for legal battles, the issue remains a flashpoint in the ongoing national debate over gender-affirming healthcare policies.