Remove the provision to eliminate care for Trans kids in military families. This provision in the National Defense Authorization Act that would prohibit TRICARE from covering gender-affirming care for transgender youth under 18 is extremely harmful and misguided. Denying access to medically necessary care for transgender military kids puts an undue burden on servicemembers and their families. It forces parents into the impossible position of choosing between supporting their child's health and wellbeing or maintaining their military career. This undermines military readiness and our commitment to supporting those who serve. Gender-affirming care for trans youth is not experimental - it is backed by major medical organizations as safe, effective, and often lifesaving treatment for gender dysphoria. Blocking access to this care puts vulnerable young people at risk of serious psychological harm. Moreover, the claim that this care sterilizes children is blatantly false - most transgender youth only access puberty blockers and hormone therapy, not surgeries. This discriminatory policy has no place in the NDAA. I urge you to remove this unnecessary and cruel provision that threatens the health and wellbeing of military families' transgender children. Our servicemembers deserve better than to have their kids' basic healthcare needs disregarded for political gain. Enact an NDAA that fully supports all military families. Thank you from your committed, voting constituent.
First sent on December 11, 2024 by Barbara
