Bill 119 HR 498, also known as the "Protecting Children from Experimentation Act," aims to amend title XIX of the Social Security Act to prevent Federal Medicaid funding from being used for gender transition procedures for minors. The bill specifically targets procedures such as hormone therapy and gender reassignment surgery for individuals under the age of 18.
Supporters of the bill argue that minors are not capable of fully understanding the long-term consequences of gender transition procedures and that such decisions should be made by adults. They also express concerns about the potential risks and side effects associated with these procedures for young individuals.
Opponents of the bill argue that it infringes on the rights of transgender minors to access necessary medical care and support. They argue that gender dysphoria is a serious medical condition that requires appropriate treatment, including gender transition procedures, to alleviate distress and improve mental health outcomes for transgender youth.
The bill has sparked debate among lawmakers and advocacy groups, with both sides presenting compelling arguments. It remains to be seen how the bill will progress through Congress and what impact it may have on the availability of gender transition procedures for minors covered by Medicaid.