The disputed policy, rooted in a recent executive order, sought to prohibit federal funds from being used to conform an inmate's appearance to that of the opposite sex. If implemented, the directive would have ended hormone therapy, banned surgeries, and restricted personal items like wigs and makeup. Justice Samuel Alito and Justice Clarence Thomas dissented, noting they would have permitted the policy to take effect during the litigation process.
US District Judge Royce Lamberth initially blocked the changes, citing the potential for severe health consequences including depression and suicidal ideation among inmates suffering from untreated gender dysphoria. Government records indicate that approximately 600 inmates were receiving hormone therapy in 2025. While the administration argued the move was necessary for security, plaintiffs' attorneys from the ACLU emphasized that the government failed to provide evidence of safety risks linked to these long-standing medical practices. The Justice Department has yet to issue a formal response to the ruling.
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