Fifteen state attorneys general have publicly opposed President Trump's executive order aiming to limit gender-affirming care for minors, asserting their commitment to protecting access to these procedures. The executive order, signed in late January, characterizes such treatments as "chemical and surgical mutilation" and seeks to curb their use. The attorneys general, however, contend that gender-affirming care is crucial and often life-saving medical treatment.

The attorneys general released a joint statement emphasizing their intent to uphold state laws that ensure access to gender-affirming care where legally permissible. They also pledged to challenge any attempts by the Trump administration to restrict access within their jurisdictions. Their statement directly refutes the executive order's claims, arguing that there is no legal basis for restricting gender-affirming care and no valid connection between such care and female genital mutilation. They also highlighted a recent court victory that unfroze federal funding for institutions providing gender-affirming care, underscoring their resolve to take further legal action if necessary.

The states involved in the joint statement include California, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Hawaii, Illinois, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Nevada, New Jersey, New York, Rhode Island, Vermont, and Wisconsin. Reports indicate that several hospital systems in Illinois, for example, are continuing to provide gender-affirming care to minors despite the executive order. One hospital system, while reviewing the executive orders, affirmed its dedication to providing comprehensive and inclusive healthcare. Another healthcare provider, which receives federal funds and specializes in LGBTQ+ care, confirmed its ongoing provision of gender-affirming care and its commitment to challenging the executive order.