What's Happening?
Congressional appropriators have opted not to include a prohibition on gender-affirming care for federal employees in the latest appropriations legislation. Initially, the House's draft of the fiscal 2026 Financial Services and General Government appropriations package
included language that would prevent federal funds from being used for gender-affirming surgeries, puberty blockers, or hormone therapy under the Federal Employees Health Benefits Program (FEHBP). However, the new version of the bill, negotiated with Senate appropriators, omits this language. Despite this reversal, the Office of Personnel Management (OPM) had already instructed insurance carriers to stop covering gender-affirming treatments, a directive that remains in effect. The ban, which began at the start of the year, allows exceptions for those already undergoing treatment and for mental health and faith-based counseling.
Why It's Important?
The decision not to codify the ban reflects ongoing debates about gender-affirming care within federal policy. While the omission of the ban from the appropriations bill may seem like a victory for advocates of gender-affirming care, the practical impact is limited due to OPM's existing restrictions. This situation highlights the complex interplay between legislative actions and administrative directives. The outcome affects federal employees and their families who seek gender-affirming care, as they continue to face barriers to accessing these treatments through their health benefits. The broader implications touch on issues of healthcare access, employee rights, and the role of government in regulating medical treatments.
