KIDS Act

This bill would stop doctors, clinics, and hospitals that take Medicare, Medicaid, or CHIP from asking kids under 18 about their gender identity or sexual preference on intake forms or other paperwork, unless that information is essential for the child’s care based on clinical guidelines. This would start 180 days after the bill becomes law.

It also tells the Department of Health and Human Services to set up a way for people to report if a provider asks for this information when it isn’t necessary, within 180 days after the law takes effect.

• Who is affected: Health care providers that participate in Medicare, Medicaid, or CHIP; patients under 18 and their families.
• What changes: Providers cannot ask minors about gender identity or sexual preference unless it’s needed to diagnose, treat, or prevent a condition they’re seeking care for, following clinical guidelines; HHS must create a reporting system for violations .
• When: The rules apply starting 180 days after the law is enacted; the reporting system must be in place by then as well .