comment_texts: 00001af40ef03a2ff6217ce0a569d90a20aafa23caef6ce25eacff0a978cb17e
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| 00001af40ef03a2ff6217ce0a569d90a20aafa23caef6ce25eacff0a978cb17e | The following comment was transmitted to Equality California by TB, a concerned person on January 8, 2026 to be submitted on their behalf: I am writing to strongly oppose the government's proposed rule that would restrict access to essential, medically necessary health care for transgender youth. Transgender health care is legitimate health care. It is safe, effective, and supported by every major medical organization in the United States. Health care providers across the country deliver this care using well-established, evidence-based standards — the same approach used for other treatments long covered by federal health programs. Research consistently shows that transgender youth who are able to access appropriate medical care, including hormone-related treatments when clinically indicated, experience improved well-being and lower rates of depression. Decisions about a child's medical care should be guided by qualified medical professionals, not federal agencies. Providers already work closely with parents, patients, and mental health professionals to ensure care is delivered thoughtfully and in age-appropriate ways. Removing access to this care would put vulnerable young people at serious risk. This proposal would cause real and lasting harm, including increased rates of depression and suicide risk — outcomes no child should face. The federal government should not punish states, hospitals, or medical providers for delivering medically necessary care to transgender youth. No provider should be forced to choose between following medical best practices and maintaining access to federal funding. Many families — particularly those with low incomes — rely on Medicaid and CHIP to access this care. Cutting off these programs would deny children critical support they need to grow, thrive, and stay healthy. I urge the government to withdraw this proposal and take meaningful steps to protect — not undermine — access to transgender health care for young people. Thank you. | 1 | fddc209eaee773ee66afcb06b4097dfbaee6e6cc200dea7f6c3b1c76890e6a0c |