Kennedy characterizes certain treatments as harmful, while medical groups have previously defended gender-affirming care under established guidelines.
Robert F. Kennedy Jr. announced new restrictions on transgender-related medical procedures, stating that what he described as “gender affirming care” has caused lasting harm to young people. The announcement reflects his policy position; reactions from medical associations are pending.
Robert F. Kennedy Jr. announced restrictions on transgender-related medical procedures, arguing that what he called “so-called ‘gender affirming care’” has caused lasting physical and psychological harm to vulnerable young people. He said, “This is not medicine, it is malpractice,” during the announcement.
Kennedy did not provide detailed clinical evidence alongside his remarks, but framed the policy as a response to concerns about long-term outcomes for minors. Specifics about the scope, implementation timeline, and legal authority for the restrictions have not yet been released.
Major U.S. medical organizations, including the American Academy of Pediatrics and the American Medical Association, have previously stated that gender-affirming care, when provided under established clinical guidelines, can be medically appropriate for some patients. Those organizations have not yet issued statements responding to Kennedy’s announcement.
Health policy experts note that the issue remains highly contested, with differing interpretations of available research and ongoing legal challenges across multiple states. Courts have played a significant role in determining how and whether such care can be restricted.
Advocacy groups on both sides of the debate reacted strongly online, with supporters praising the move as protective and critics warning it could limit access to care and increase stigma. No immediate legal challenges were announced.
Kennedy said additional guidance would be forthcoming. As of now, the announcement represents a policy position and intent; any enforceable changes would depend on regulatory action, legislation, or court rulings.
