Congressman Pat Harrigan, representing North Carolina’s 10th Congressional District, voted in favor of H.R. 498, known as the Do No Harm in Medicaid Act. The bill seeks to prohibit the use of federal Medicaid funds for gender transition procedures on minors.
The legislation amends the Social Security Act to prevent Medicaid from covering gender transition surgeries, hormone treatments, and puberty-blocking drugs for individuals under 18 years old. Exceptions are included for rare medical conditions, serious injuries, or life-threatening illnesses. The bill maintains that necessary medical care is still available when a patient’s physical health is at risk.
“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.”
After passing in the House of Representatives, the legislation will now be considered by the Senate. Congressman Harrigan has called on lawmakers to act responsibly regarding this issue.
Pat Harrigan secured his seat after defeating Ralph R. Scott, Jr. in the 2024 general election with 57.5% of the vote.
