Golden State Today

California Attorney General Rob Bonta has joined forces with 17 other attorneys general in an effort to support plaintiffs in a lawsuit against the Trump Administration. The coalition has filed an amicus brief in the U.S. District Court for the District of Maryland, backing Parents, Families and Friends of Lesbians and Gays (PFLAG), GLMA: Health Professionals Advancing LGBTQ+ Equality, and individual patients who are challenging Executive Orders 14168 and 14187. These orders have been criticized for targeting transgender individuals by labeling gender identity as a "false" idea and attempting to withdraw federal funding from institutions providing gender-affirming care to minors.

Attorney General Bonta emphasized the importance of allowing health care decisions, including those related to gender-affirming care, to be made without political interference. "As we continue to face relentless attacks on transgender rights, my office remains unwavering in our commitment to defending the rights of transgender individuals as they seek to live their lives as their authentic selves," Bonta stated.

The coalition argues that these executive actions unlawfully discriminate against transgender youth based on their identity. The states involved have enacted laws protecting transgender residents from discrimination, such as California's Unruh Civil Rights Act and Government Code section 11135. They contend that denying services based on gender identity constitutes discrimination.

Medical evidence presented in the brief indicates that gender-affirming care significantly improves health outcomes for those with gender dysphoria. A study by the University of Washington showed reduced odds of depression and suicidal thoughts among young individuals receiving such care.

The attorneys general also highlight the confusion and fear caused by the Executive Orders among providers and families. Reports from The Trevor Project indicate increased demand for crisis services following these orders. Despite this turmoil, California continues to offer gender-affirming care, supported by federal court decisions preventing the withholding of funds from relevant institutions.

Alongside Attorney General Bonta, Massachusetts Attorney General Andrea Joy Campbell and Maryland Attorney General Anthony Brown are leading this initiative. Other participating states include Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, District of Columbia, Hawaii, Illinois, Maine, Minnesota, Nevada, New Jersey, New York, Oregon, Rhode Island, Vermont, and Washington.

A copy of the amicus brief is available for public access.