NYCLU on Supreme Court Ruling Upholding Tennessee’s Ban on Gender Affirming Care 

NY state protections for transgender people in New York stand strong thanks to NYS Equal Rights Amendment 

NEW YORK – Today, in United States v. Skrmetti, the U.S. Supreme Court ruled that a Tennessee law banning gender-affirming medical care does not violate the Constitution and can remain in effect. The decision is a devastating loss for trans rights and risks emboldening other states to advance similar bans. In response, the New York Civil Liberties Union released the following statement attributable to Executive Director Donna Lieberman: 

“This decision is a disgraceful stain on our country and the latest devastating attack on transgender youth, their loved ones, and their health care providers. The Supreme Court has failed to protect families’ freedoms, and while the decision is limited in important ways, it will embolden politicians trying to ban transgender health care, abortion, and more.

“Let’s be clear: Today’s ruling neither removes nor affects our New York state’s protections for trans people and their right to access gender-affirming care in New York. The NY Equal Rights Amendment, which the NYCLU helped lead to victory on the 2024 ballot, cemented these protections. Gender affirming care is available and protected for New Yorkers. Anyone who comes to our state has the fundamental right to get the care they deserve.  

“Access to gender-affirming care can be lifesaving. We will continue to defend the rights of transgender people to live as their authentic selves, free from harm and discrimination.” 

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