House Rejects Military Transgender Ban While Passing Medical Restrictions

The United States House of Representatives rejected an amendment to the National Defense Authorization Act on July 21, 2026, that would have codified a January 2025 executive order by President Donald Trump banning transgender people from military service. The measure, sponsored by Representative Lauren Boebert, failed in a 212-217 vote after four Republicans joined Democrats in opposition. The vote follows a recent appeals court ruling that struck down the executive order, citing animus and a lack of reasonable justification.

Despite the failure of the service ban, the House passed two restrictive amendments proposed by Representative Nancy Mace. These measures prohibit the military health insurance plan TRICARE from covering certain gender-related medical procedures, including sex-change drugs and surgeries. Additionally, the amendments bar transgender individuals assigned male at birth from participating in girls' K-12 sports at Department of Defense-run schools.

Following the votes, Representative Lauren Boebert accused four Republicans of betraying the military and the president. The bill now moves to the Senate for further consideration.