1. United States
2. Ga.
3. Letter

The proposed legislation to restrict public funding for gender-affirming care for transgender adults in our state is deeply concerning. It represents a discriminatory attack on the rights and well-being of our transgender constituents. Gender-affirming care is essential, medically necessary treatment that allows transgender individuals to live authentically and improve their quality of life. Denying access to this care through state health plans, Medicaid, and prisons would be a violation of the principles of equality and compassion that should guide our laws. The federal government and courts have already affirmed that discrimination against transgender people in employment and health care violates civil rights protections. Numerous medical associations also recognize gender-affirming care as an appropriate and often lifesaving intervention for those experiencing gender dysphoria. Pursuing this legislation puts our state at risk of costly legal challenges and runs counter to majority public opinion which shows increasing acceptance of transgender people. I urge you to reject this harmful proposal and instead prioritize policies that expand access to quality, affordable health care for all our constituents, regardless of gender identity. True public service means protecting the rights and dignity of all people. Targeting a vulnerable minority group with punitive health care restrictions falls far short of that standard of responsible governance. I ask that you stand on the right side of history and oppose this discriminatory measure.