Congressman Pat Harrigan Votes to Protect Children and Refocus Medicaid on Those Who Truly Need It

Contact: Lexi Kranich (814) 380-4408

WASHINGTON, D.C.—Today, Congressman Pat Harrigan (NC-10) voted to pass H.R. 498, the Do No Harm in Medicaid Act, legislation that prohibits federal Medicaid funds from being used to pay for irreversible gender transition procedures for minors. The bill reinforces Medicaid’s core purpose and ensures limited resources are reserved for individuals and families who rely on the program for essential medical care.

“Medicaid exists for people who truly need help accessing basic medical care,” said Congressman Harrigan. “It’s a lifeline for families, seniors, people with disabilities, and children who don’t have other options. Using those dollars to fund permanent, irreversible procedures on minors is wrong. This vote draws a clear line and keeps Medicaid focused on real medical care for the people it was created to serve.”

The legislation updates the Social Security Act to bar federal Medicaid funding for gender transition surgeries, hormone treatments, and puberty-blocking drugs for individuals under 18, while preserving exceptions for rare medical conditions, serious injury, or life-threatening illness. Legitimate medical care remains protected when a patient’s physical health is at risk.

With House passage, the Do No Harm in Medicaid Act now moves to the Senate. Congressman Harrigan is urging lawmakers to act with clarity and responsibility, protect children from irreversible harm, and ensure Medicaid dollars are used as intended.