Federal judge sides with Washington in case over transgender youth health care

March 20, 2026 - 19:41

A federal judge announced Thursday his intent to rule in favor of Washington state and a coalition of 20 other states and the District of Columbia, granting a preliminary injunction against an Idaho law that criminalizes adults helping transgender minors leave the state for gender-affirming medical care.

The lawsuit, led by Washington Attorney General Bob Ferguson, challenges Idaho's recently enacted statute, which makes it a felony to assist a minor in obtaining such care across state lines. The judge stated the plaintiffs are "likely to succeed" in their argument that the Idaho law violates the U.S. Constitution's Commerce Clause, which grants Congress the power to regulate interstate trade.

The ruling, expected to be formally filed soon, would block the Idaho law from taking effect while the broader legal challenge proceeds. The coalition of states argues the Idaho statute illegally attempts to project state law beyond its borders, infringing on the sovereignty of other states where gender-affirming treatments for minors are legal and established medical practice. They contend it also harms families by creating fear and barriers to accessing necessary healthcare.

This decision marks a significant initial setback for Idaho's law, part of a wave of similar legislation nationwide, and reinforces the legal principle that one state cannot dictate the legal activities of citizens or healthcare providers in another state's jurisdiction.