H.R.498 - Do No Harm in Medicaid Act (119th Congress)
Summary
H.R.498, the "Do No Harm in Medicaid Act," seeks to amend Title XIX of the Social Security Act to prohibit federal Medicaid funding for gender transition procedures for minors. The bill defines "specified gender transition procedures" and outlines exceptions for medically verifiable genetic disorders, precocious puberty, and procedures to correct previous interventions. It specifies that "sex" is biologically determined as either male or female based on reproductive systems.
Expected Effects
If enacted, this bill would prevent federal Medicaid funds from being used for gender transition procedures for individuals under 18, potentially limiting access to such procedures for low-income families. States might need to find alternative funding sources if they wish to continue providing these services. The bill could also lead to legal challenges based on equal protection and healthcare access arguments.
Potential Benefits
- Potentially reduces federal spending on specific medical procedures.
- May align with the preferences of some parents or guardians regarding medical interventions for minors.
- Could encourage further research and debate on the long-term effects of gender transition procedures on minors.
- May prevent irreversible medical procedures on individuals who may later regret their decision.
- Could reinforce traditional views on gender and biological sex.
Most Benefited Areas:
Potential Disadvantages
- Restricts access to healthcare for transgender minors, potentially leading to negative mental health outcomes.
- May disproportionately affect low-income families who rely on Medicaid for healthcare access.
- Could be seen as discriminatory against transgender individuals.
- May interfere with medical decisions made by doctors and families.
- Potentially increases the risk of unsafe or unregulated procedures.
Constitutional Alignment
The bill's constitutionality is debatable. While Congress has the power to regulate federal spending under Article I, Section 8, the bill could face challenges under the Equal Protection Clause of the Fourteenth Amendment if it is deemed discriminatory. Additionally, arguments could be made regarding parental rights to make medical decisions for their children, although these rights are not absolute and are subject to state regulation.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).