Democratic Maryland Gov. Wes Moore signed a bill Wednesday expanding Medicaid coverage for sex changes in the state.
The “Trans Health Equity Act” requires that Medicaid funds be used to cover sex changes in a “nondiscriminatory manner” and covers the administering of cross-sex hormones, plastic surgery, voice therapy and “laser treatment for scars from gender-affirming treatment.” The bill is set to take effect Jan. 1, 2024.
The Democratic governor also signed a bill enshrining abortion as a “fundamental right” and requiring that universities develop a “reproductive health services plan” and ensure access to contraceptives.
Another successful bill signing from @GovWesMoore @LtGovMiller @SenBillFerg and @SpeakerAJones . Today, the Trans Health Equity Act (SB460) was signed into law, protecting the rights of trans Marylanders and offering them equal opportunities. #LGBTQIA pic.twitter.com/42WVNRoXaT
— State Senator Mary Washington (@StateSenMaryW) May 4, 2023
Today I signed bills into law regarding reproductive rights and equity in the cannabis industry.
Watch our remarks and bill signing ceremony here: https://t.co/vOr4dUSOtn
Watch bill signing ceremony here: https://t.co/ShCRwMMhj0
— Governor Wes Moore (@GovWesMoore) May 3, 2023
Eighteen states have passed laws limiting sex changes for children under 18, according to the Human Rights Campaign. Fourteen states currently ban most abortions, according to The New York Times. Twenty-six states legally protect abortions at the time of writing, as well as Washington, D.C.
The Maryland House voted for a constitutional amendment creating a right to abortion in the state in March. (RELATED: Biden Admin Tells Catholic Hospital To Put Out Sanctuary Candle Light In Violation Of Religious Beliefs)
“There’s nothing more important than ensuring that Marylanders’ personal rights and freedoms are protected and extended equally,” Maryland House Speaker Adrienne Jones said at the time. “The House and Senate will continue to work together to ensure that we pass the full package of reproductive rights bills so anyone seeking or providing abortion care in Maryland is protected.”