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Protest Erupts as HHS Targets Transgender Youth Care

2/17/2026

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Story summary
  • On February 17, 2026, twenty-four people were arrested during a protest at the Department of Health and Human Services opposing proposed rules affecting transgender youth care.
  • The rules, now in final public comment, would penalize hospitals providing gender-affirming care and risk their federal funding.
  • HHS Secretary Kennedy says the care does not meet health standards despite support from major medical associations.
  • Over 40 hospitals have halted gender-affirming treatments.