FTC Seeks Public Input on Gender-Affirming Care Inquiry

FTC Investigates Alleged Misleading Claims About Gender-Affirming Care

The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) is actively seeking public input as part of its ongoing investigation into potential illegal claims made by providers of gender-affirming care. The agency aims to understand the possible harms to consumers, particularly minors, from false or unsupported assertions regarding these medical procedures. In a recent statement, the FTC encouraged individuals to share their concerns or relevant information that could assist in evaluating this critical issue.

The FTC has emphasized that it will accept various forms of evidence, including written data, advertisements, social media posts, disclosures, and empirical research. This broad scope reflects the agency's commitment to thoroughly examining the practices of those offering gender-affirming care.

According to the FTC, the investigation focuses on whether providers have violated Sections 5 and 12 of the FTC Act. Section 5 addresses unfair or deceptive business practices, while Section 12 targets false advertising. The agency has a history of taking enforcement actions in similar areas and believes it is well-suited to investigate any potentially unlawful activities related to gender-affirming care.

The FTC’s latest initiative follows a day-long workshop held in Washington, D.C., on July 9, which focused on the potential harms of gender-affirming care. The event featured panels with experts, whistleblowers, detransitioners, and their families. Some participants shared deeply emotional stories about the pain caused by these procedures, highlighting the serious consequences that can arise.

During the workshop, Chad Mizelle, Chief of Staff at the U.S. Justice Department, announced that the DOJ had issued over 20 subpoenas to clinics providing trans medical procedures to children. Boston Children's Hospital, the first pediatric and adolescent transgender medicalization clinic in the U.S., was among the facilities targeted, according to reports.

Brandon Showalter, a Christian Post opinion writer and host of the "Generation Indoctrination" podcast, praised the FTC's efforts. He expects many individuals to provide substantial evidence of misleading claims, falsified medical records, and other fraudulent practices associated with so-called "gender-affirming care."

Showalter referenced federal actions and a recent Supreme Court ruling upholding Tennessee’s law banning trans medicalization for minors, suggesting a shift in public sentiment against transgender ideology. However, he also noted that trans activists remain powerful and determined.

"The infrastructure that the trans industry has built is enormous, well-funded, and deeply embedded in prominent institutions," Showalter said. "They remain ideologically captured and continue to manipulate and deceive the public about their true intentions."

He added that trans activists are relentless in their pursuit of power and do not easily accept opposition, even when strong policies are enacted. Despite some hospitals closing their gender clinics or pausing these treatments, Showalter believes trans activists are regrouping and strategizing to continue their influence.

The FTC has invited the public to submit comments through Regulations.gov by September 26. This opportunity allows individuals to contribute their perspectives and help shape the agency's understanding of the issues at hand.