Trump’s “One Big Beautiful Bill” Bans Medicaid Funding for Gender-Affirming Care

President Donald Trump’s newly passed “One Big Beautiful Bill” prohibits Medicaid from covering “gender-affirming care” for both minors and adults with gender dysphoria. The bill, which passed the House by a narrow 215-214 vote, expands restrictions initially targeting minors to include all individuals, banning Medicaid coverage for surgeries, hormones, and puberty blockers.
Conservatives have praised the legislation, arguing that gender-affirming procedures are costly and not medically necessary. They contend that biological sex is immutable and that funding such treatments amounts to government endorsement of a mental falsehood. Many also emphasize that minors cannot provide informed consent for life-altering procedures, arguing that Medicaid coverage encourages premature decisions.
The bill, which repeals Obama-era Affordable Care Act provisions classifying gender transition as an essential health benefit, has drawn fierce backlash from progressives. LGBTQ+ advocates, including Rep. Sarah McBride (D-Del.), have decried the legislation as discriminatory, while Rep. Mark Pocan (D-Wis.) called it a “s*** show.”
Despite opposition, a recent Pew Research Center survey found that 56% of Americans support banning gender-affirming care for minors, with 66% backing restrictions on transgender athletes. The bill now moves to the Senate, where GOP leaders aim to pass it via reconciliation.

Published: 5/24/2025