Department of Health and Human Services (HHS)

A policy shift ending Medicaid funding for youth sex-change treatments was analyzed by Dr. Quentin Van Meter, the immediate past president of the American College of Pediatricians. Van Meter stated that blocking these interventions is appropriate and not a denial of care, arguing instead for ongoing mental health treatment for underlying issues. He further argued that 'puberty is not a disease' and cited conflicting medical studies as evidence against sex-change procedures.

A veteran pediatrician, Dr. Quentin Van Meter, praised the policy shift ending Medicaid funding for youth sex-change treatments. He argued that this restriction was 'compassionate' and appropriate, advocating instead for ongoing mental health treatment to address underlying issues. Van Meter further asserted that puberty is not a disease and cited concerns regarding potential risks associated with these interventions.

Three detransitioners—Clementine Breen, Soren Aldaco, and Luke Healy—allege they were pressured by doctors into gender transition treatments while minors. An HHS-commissioned report titled "Wolves in White Coats" further alleges that financial incentives motivated hospitals to provide these services and identifies potentially improper insurance billing practices. The article highlights concerns regarding consent for irreversible procedures like losing fertility and the progression of care from puberty blockers to surgery.

Lawmakers are rushing to pass health care bills before the House and Senate adjourn together until Sept. 14. The article highlights a flurry of legislative activity as each chamber will later operate independently for part of the remaining session.

A watchdog group exposed at least $3.85 million in taxpayer funding linked to the Southern Poverty Law Center, including a $2.5 million NIH-backed University of Michigan grant for integrating SPLC's "Learning for Justice" curriculum into middle school classrooms. The program has drawn criticism from Republican lawmakers and watchdog organizations over its content, which some argue presents activist messaging as equivalent to hate groups. The Department of Health and Human Services stated the program is no longer being funded and has been redesigned.

The US state department will revoke passports of parents who owe significant child support, starting with those owing $100,000 or more, affecting about 2,700 American passport holders. The revocations will begin on Friday and later expand to those who owe $2,500 or more. This move aims to enforce unpaid child support payments.

Xavier Becerra, former HHS Secretary, faces scrutiny over a scandal involving missing migrant children during his tenure. Critics argue that rushed processing led to safety risks, while Becerra claims children were placed with vetted sponsors. The HHS Office of Inspector General later confirmed gaps in sponsor screening and follow-up procedures.

Benjamin Landa, nominated as U.S. Ambassador to Hungary, co-owns a nursing home accused of Medicare overpayments totaling $31.2 million. The facility is suing the Trump administration over audit findings, while critics question Landa's qualifications due to his business ties and political donations. The White House has not commented on his nomination.