Michigan Attorney General Warns University of Michigan Over Gender-Affirming Care Suspension

The University of Michigan Health has announced it will cease providing gender-affirming care to patients under the age of 19, a decision influenced by federal pressure from the Trump administration. This move follows the issuance of a subpoena from the Department of Justice as part of a broader investigation into gender-affirming care for minors. Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel has condemned this decision, stating it may violate state nondiscrimination laws.

Michigan Public RadioThe HillMichigan AG Warns UM Hospitals Not To Capitulate Over Trump's Trans Ban, Calls Decision Likely "Illegal"The HillBridge MichiganTalking Points Memo

The Trump administration has intensified its campaign against gender-affirming care, threatening hospitals with subpoenas and potential funding cuts. In July, the Department of Justice issued over 20 subpoenas to various healthcare providers, including the University of Michigan, accusing them of "mutilating children" under the guise of gender-affirming care. This has created a climate of fear among healthcare providers, leading many, including prestigious institutions like the University of Michigan, to halt such services to avoid legal repercussions and loss of federal funding.

Talking Points Memo

Dana Nessel has been vocal in her opposition to the University of Michigan's decision, labeling it "shameful, dangerous, and potentially illegal." She argues that capitulating to federal threats undermines the rights of transgender individuals in Michigan. Nessel has indicated her office is prepared to explore all legal options to ensure compliance with state laws that protect against discrimination based on gender identity.

Michigan Public Radio

The cessation of gender-affirming care at the University of Michigan is particularly concerning given that it is one of only two major providers of such services in the state. Advocates, including Rachel Crandall Crocker from TransGender Michigan, have expressed that this decision will significantly impact the lives of transgender youth, leaving many without essential healthcare services. The broader implications of this shift reflect a national trend where at least 21 hospitals have restricted or ended gender-affirming care since the beginning of 2023.

The Hill

Equality Michigan has also criticized the University of Michigan's decision, stating it sends a damaging message to vulnerable young people who rely on gender-affirming care for their well-being. The organization emphasizes that the decision reflects a retreat from the institution's responsibility to serve all patients, particularly those most in need of support and affirmation.

Bridge Michigan

While the University of Michigan cites external threats and risks as reasons for its decision, critics argue that the legal basis for the Trump administration's actions is tenuous. Courts have previously rejected similar intimidation tactics, and Nessel's multistate lawsuit against the administration seeks to challenge these overreaching measures. The lawsuit argues that the federal government is unlawfully attempting to impose a national ban on gender-affirming care without congressional approval.

Michigan AG Warns UM Hospitals Not To Capitulate Over Trump's Trans Ban, Calls Decision Likely "Illegal"

• “This cowardly acquiescence to political pressure from this president and his administration is not what patients have come to expect from an institution that has labeled itself, ‘the leaders and the best,’ and my Department will be considering all of our options if they violate Michigan law,” — Dana Nessel, Michigan Attorney General

Michigan AG Warns UM Hospitals Not To Capitulate Over Trump's Trans Ban, Calls Decision Likely "Illegal"

• “It would leave a big hole in services,” — Rachel Crandall Crocker, co-founder of TransGender Michigan

Talking Points Memo

The University of Michigan's suspension of gender-affirming care for minors highlights the ongoing conflict between state protections for transgender individuals and federal pressures that seek to limit access to essential healthcare. As legal battles unfold, the role of state attorneys general like Dana Nessel will be crucial in defending the rights of vulnerable populations against federal overreach.

Michigan Public Radio