23 States Sue Trump Administration Over Title X Grants

Officials from 23 mostly Democratic-led states filed a lawsuit in Maryland federal court on Thursday to block the Trump administration from imposing new conditions on Title X family-planning grants. The lawsuit alleges that the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services unlawfully penalizes states and providers that refuse to discourage contraception or provide gender-affirming care.

The administration's new requirements demand that grant applicants align with specific political priorities, including the recognition of only two sexes and the elimination of diversity, equity, and inclusion programs. The plaintiff states argue these conditions conflict with the original Title X law, which prohibits patient discrimination and mandates broad counseling. They further claim the policy was adopted without the required formal rulemaking process.

This legal challenge follows a similar pending lawsuit filed by Planned Parenthood. New York Attorney General Letitia James provided data to support the suit, detailing the impact of Title X funding within her state.