Idaho lawmakers are set to vote on a bill that would prohibit the use of public funds for gender-affirming care, encompassing state employees utilizing work health insurance and adults covered by Medicaid. The bill, having already passed the House, now awaits approval from the majority Republican Senate before potentially being signed into law by Governor Brad Little, who has expressed opposition to the use of public funds for such care.
If enacted, Idaho would join at least nine other states in banning Medicaid funding for gender-affirming care for individuals of all ages, as reported by the Movement Advancement Project. This legislation is part of a broader national debate concerning the rights of LGBTQ+ individuals.
Opponents of the bill anticipate legal challenges, with past attempts to restrict gender-affirming care in Idaho resulting in multiple lawsuits against the state. In some instances, Idaho was compelled by federal courts to provide gender-transition surgery and pay substantial legal fees.
During a recent hearing, an attorney representing transgender adults argued that the bill violates the 14th Amendment and the federal Medicaid Act by discriminating against certain medical conditions. The bill's sponsor defended the legislation as a measure to protect taxpayers from potentially high costs associated with gender-affirming care.
Critics of the bill have raised concerns about its potential impact on individuals receiving care in rural areas and even privately insured residents. The legislation's broad language could have unintended consequences, such as criminalizing the use of prescribed medications like hormone therapy in certain settings.
While some states have enacted similar bans on gender-affirming care for minors, major medical organizations have opposed such measures, emphasizing the safety and importance of gender-affirming care when administered appropriately.
As the debate continues, the outcome of the upcoming vote in Idaho will have significant implications for the provision of gender-affirming care in the state and potentially set a precedent for similar legislation nationwide.
