FTC and Four States Sue Transgender Health Group WPATH Over Care Claims
4 verified4 unconfirmed
The Federal Trade Commission and four state attorneys general filed a lawsuit Wednesday against the World Professional Association for Transgender Health, alleging the organization made deceptive claims about gender-affirming care for minors. The lawsuit, filed in a federal court in Texas, is part of a broader effort by the Trump administration to limit such care. WPATH rejected the allegations, stating that the FTC has no jurisdiction over its noncommercial speech and that its guidelines are based on individualized patient care. A federal judge had previously blocked an FTC investigation into WPATH, citing First Amendment concerns. WPATH stated it expects the same result in this latest legal challenge. The lawsuit names Alaska, Iowa, Nebraska, and Texas as co-plaintiffs. Both the FTC and WPATH have issued public statements disputing the other’s position.
What’s verified
The Federal Trade Commission and attorneys general from Alaska, Iowa, Nebraska, and Texas filed a lawsuit against the World Professional Association for Transgender Health on June 17, 2026.
The lawsuit alleges WPATH made deceptive or false claims about gender-affirming care for minors, including the benefits and risks of surgeries and drugs.
WPATH rejected the allegations, stating the FTC has no jurisdiction and that its guidelines are based on evidence and individualized patient care.
A federal judge had previously blocked an FTC investigation into WPATH, citing First Amendment grounds and finding extensive evidence of animus.
Not yet confirmed
The FTC also reportedly launched investigations into the American Academy of Pediatrics and the Endocrine Society over their guidelines on gender-affirming care, according to one source.
WPATH’s website notes the organization has established medical standards for gender-affirming care for more than 50 years, according to one source.
A grand jury subpoena related to gender-affirming care was issued to NYU Langone Hospital, according to one source.
The lawsuit cites two evidence reviews: the Cass review commissioned by England’s health agency and the Trump administration’s own review on gender dysphoria, according to one source.
Key figures
World Professional Association for Transgender Health (WPATH), Federal Trade Commission (FTC), Andrew Ferguson (FTC Chair), Melissa Holyoak (former FTC Commissioner), James Boasberg (federal judge)
Sources: The Guardian, statnews.com
