A coalition of 19 states and the District of Columbia filed a lawsuit against the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), its secretary, Robert F. Kennedy Jr., and its inspector general over a declaration that could complicate access to gender-affirming care for young people. The lawsuit was filed in response to a declaration issued by HHS on December 19, 2025, which called treatments like puberty blockers, hormone therapy, and surgeries unsafe and ineffective for children and adolescents experiencing gender dysphoria.

The declaration, which was signed by HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., warned doctors that they could be excluded from federal health programs like Medicare and Medicaid if they provide gender-affirming care to minors. The lawsuit argues that the declaration is an overreach of HHS's authority and that it will cause harm to vulnerable youth who rely on these treatments to manage their gender dysphoria.

"We cannot stand idly by while the federal government attempts to dictate the medical care that our children can receive," said New York Attorney General Letitia James, who is leading the lawsuit. "Gender-affirming care is a lifesaving treatment that has been proven to be safe and effective for young people. We will fight to protect the rights of our children and ensure that they have access to the care they need."

The lawsuit also argues that the declaration is based on flawed science and that it ignores the overwhelming evidence that gender-affirming care is a safe and effective treatment for gender dysphoria. The plaintiffs point to numerous studies that have shown that gender-affirming care can improve mental health outcomes, reduce the risk of depression and anxiety, and even save lives.

The controversy over gender-affirming care for minors has been ongoing for several years, with some states and politicians pushing to restrict access to these treatments. In 2022, Arkansas became the first state to ban gender-affirming care for minors, and several other states have since followed suit.

The debate over gender-affirming care is complex and multifaceted, with some arguing that it is a form of child abuse and others arguing that it is a necessary treatment for young people who are struggling with their gender identity. The American Academy of Pediatrics and other major medical organizations have endorsed gender-affirming care as a safe and effective treatment for gender dysphoria.

The lawsuit is the latest development in a long-running battle over access to gender-affirming care for minors. The case is likely to be closely watched by advocates on both sides of the issue, who are eager to see how the courts will rule.

In a statement, HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. defended the declaration, saying that it was necessary to protect the health and well-being of young people. "We cannot allow the medical profession to be bullied into providing treatments that are not in the best interests of our children," he said.

The lawsuit is ongoing, and a hearing is scheduled for early next year. In the meantime, the debate over gender-affirming care for minors is likely to continue, with advocates on both sides pushing for their views to be heard.