Biden Administration Expands Health Care Protections for LGBTQ+ Individuals

The new rule under Section 1557 of the Affordable Care Act strengthens anti-discrimination measures for sexual orientation and gender identity.

The Biden administration has reinstated and expanded protections initially rolled back under the Trump administration, ensuring that discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity in healthcare is prohibited.
HHS Secretary Xavier Becerra emphasized that the rule is a significant step towards a more equitable and inclusive healthcare system across the United States.
The rule maintains that exemptions for healthcare providers' religious beliefs will still be honored, allowing them to opt-out of procedures that conflict with their faith.
Legal battles and state-level restrictions on gender-affirming care continue, highlighting the contentious nature of healthcare rights for transgender individuals.
Advocacy groups and medical associations widely support the reinstated protections, viewing them as essential for preventing discrimination and ensuring access to necessary healthcare services.