SCOTUS GOT IT WRONG:

The Supreme Court has failed to protect families’ freedoms and has allowed politicians’ targeting of transgender youth’s healthcare to stand. Today’s decision in U.S. v. Skrmetti is a devastating setback, permitting Tennessee’s categorical ban (SB1) on gender-affirming care—a clear violation of the Equal Protection Clause due to discrimination based on sex and transgender status—to remain in effect.

First, we want to say upfront to trans youth: 

Your right to exist and thrive is unwavering, and Vermont stands firmly with you. No court decision can diminish your worth. We are committed to showing up for you today and every day.

And, to parents and caregivers: 

Your rights to care for your child remain strongly protected in Vermont. You’re not alone—we’re in this together.

Today’s ruling is painful for transgender young people, their parents, caregivers, and medical providers across the country. These bans have already uprooted families, disrupted communities, and jeopardized the health and well-being of countless transgender youth. Allowing politicians to further target transgender youth is a severe threat to their safety, dignity, and future.

However, this ruling does not impose a nationwide ban or change the law in states without such restrictions. Vermont’s protections remain strong and unwavering:

• Vermont explicitly protects gender-affirming healthcare access through state legislation.

• Vermont healthcare providers are shielded from out-of-state legal action for providing legally protected care within the state.

• Vermont law requires insurance providers to cover medically necessary gender-affirming care for youth regardless of age.

• Youth, families, and medical professionals in Vermont are protected from criminalization or civil penalties related to gender-affirming care.

States like Vermont can and will uphold these legal protections regardless of the Supreme Court’s decision. Yet, we recognize that today's ruling will intensify political and legal attacks on transgender rights nationwide.

Our fight continues. No matter the ruling, transgender youth and families are not alone. Here’s what you can do: 

- Show your visible support for trans youth:  Download and post this image on your window at home, office, on your care, business, etc. Let people know that you stand with trans youth! 

- Mark your calendar: Along with your partners, we will host a community event in early August 2025 for education and action. Please stay connected through social media and our email updates for ongoing support.

- Sign the Show Up In Solidarity Pledge: Add your name to a growing list of Vermonters who are committed to act in solidarity with LGBTQ+ youth. Make your support for queer and trans young people clear, loud, and unmistakeable!

- Know the facts: 

• Gender-affirming healthcare is crucial for transgender youth

• Families and doctors deserve trust, respect, and privacy as they make medical decisions, free from political interference.

• Every major medical, pediatric, and psychological association in the United States endorses gender-affirming medical care as essential.

• Hormone therapies have safely been used worldwide for decades, helping transgender adolescents build the foundation for a healthy, authentic, and fulfilling life.
  
  

Our fight continues. No matter the ruling, transgender youth and families are not alone. We are here for you. 

Together, we will persist in defending the freedoms and rights of transgender individuals and their families everywhere, continuing our fight in courtrooms and communities until everyone has the freedom to shape their own future.