Attorney General Charity Clark has aligned with 18 state attorneys general to support Parents, Families and Friends of Lesbians and Gays (PFLAG) in a lawsuit against the Trump Administration. The coalition filed an amicus brief in the U.S. District Court for the District of Maryland, advocating for PFLAG's motion for a preliminary injunction.
The legal challenge, initiated by PFLAG on February 4, 2025, contests President Trump's Executive Orders that label gender identity as "false" and aim to withdraw federal funding from institutions offering gender-affirming care to minors under 19. The attorneys general argue that these actions unlawfully discriminate against transgender youth.
Attorney General Clark emphasized the importance of gender-affirming care, stating, "There can be no doubt that gender-affirming care saves lives and should be between a patient and their doctor." She reiterated her commitment to making Vermont a supportive environment for all individuals, particularly children.
The states involved have implemented various laws and policies supporting transgender residents. These include protections for healthcare services, birth certificate amendments, anti-discrimination measures in multiple sectors, and safeguarding those providing or accessing gender-affirming care.
The coalition highlights medical evidence indicating improved health outcomes from gender-affirming care for those with gender dysphoria. A University of Washington study revealed significant reductions in depression and suicidal thoughts among youths receiving such care.
Despite Vermont maintaining access to this care, the Executive Order has caused concern among providers and patients nationwide. Following PFLAG's lawsuit filing, Attorney General Clark joined other attorneys general in reaffirming their dedication to protecting access to gender-affirming care. They reminded providers that federal courts have prevented funding withdrawal from institutions offering such services.
Alongside AG Clark are attorneys general from California, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, the District of Columbia, Hawaii, Illinois, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Minnesota, Nevada, New Jersey, New York, Oregon, Rhode Island, and Washington.
The amicus brief is publicly accessible.