FTC and States Sue WPATH Over Claims on Gender-Affirming Care

The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) and four states have sued the World Professional Association for Transgender Health (WPATH). The lawsuit is part of the Trump administration’s effort to restrict gender-affirming healthcare for transgender minors.

According to the lawsuit, WPATH allegedly made misleading statements about gender-affirming care for minors. The group is accused of profiting from these claims. The states of Alaska, Iowa, Nebraska, and Texas have joined the FTC in this legal action.

FTC Chairman Andrew Ferguson expressed that parents must have access to accurate information when making healthcare decisions for their children. He stated on X, “The FTC will not allow parents and children to be deceived by medical organizations and providers who are prioritizing profit over children’s health and safety.”

WPATH has responded by stating its guidelines promote personalized patient care rather than a standardized approach. The lawsuit follows an investigation by the FTC, which WPATH sought to block by claiming a violation of its First Amendment rights. A federal judge ruled in favor of WPATH, halting the probe temporarily.

The FTC is also investigating the American Academy of Pediatrics and the Endocrine Society regarding their guidelines on gender-affirming care. Both organizations have taken legal action in response.

WPATH asserts that its medical standards, accepted over the past 50 years, are based on scientific research, expert opinions, and a patient-centered approach. WPATH stated that the federal court has previously ruled against the FTC in this matter, describing its actions as retaliatory efforts by the government against gender-affirming care.

WPATH remains confident in proving that the FTC is undermining its mission to deliver informed care and guidance to healthcare providers and their patients.

Correction: The organization referred to as the American Association of Pediatrics is correctly named the American Academy of Pediatrics.

The Associated Press Health and Science Department receives support from the Howard Hughes Medical Institute’s Department of Science Education and the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation. The AP holds sole responsibility for the content.