Idaho Considers Prohibiting Use of Public Funds or Facilities for Gender Transformations

Idaho legislators are set to vote on a bill this week that would prohibit the use of public funds for gender transformation, including for state workers using work health insurance and adults covered by Medicaid.

The bill, which has already passed the House, now needs approval from the majority Republican Senate before reaching Gov. Brad Little’s desk. Little, a Republican, has expressed his belief that public funds should not be used for gender transformation.

If passed, Idaho would join at least nine other states in banning Medicaid funding for gender transformation across all age groups, according to the Movement Advancement Project. This legislation is part of a broader national discussion on LGBTQ+ rights.

Opponents of the bill believe it will likely lead to a federal lawsuit, as Idaho has faced legal challenges in the past regarding transgender rights. The state has been ordered to provide gender-transition surgery to a transgender inmate and has faced other lawsuits over Medicaid coverage for gender-switching treatments.

Boise attorney Howard Belodoff argued during a hearing that the bill violates the 14th Amendment and the federal Medicaid Act, as it discriminates against certain medical conditions. He represents transgender adults who have filed lawsuits against the state over denied Medicaid coverage.

Supporters of the bill, like Rep. Bruce Skaug, argue that it is necessary to protect taxpayers from potentially high costs associated with gender transformation procedures. However, critics worry that the bill could have unintended consequences, impacting even privately insured residents in rural areas.

The bill could also affect state employees, such as correctional workers who may need hormone therapy while on the job. Violating the law could result in fines and imprisonment, creating concerns for those who rely on medically necessary treatments.

Despite opposition from major medical groups like the AMerican Medical Association and the American Academy of Pediatrics, several states have passed laws restricting gender transformation for minors. The ongoing legal battles highlight the complex issues surrounding transgender rights and access to care.