FTC Sues WPATH Over Gender-Affirming Care Allegations

The Federal Trade Commission (FTC), in conjunction with Alaska, Iowa, Nebraska, and Texas, has initiated a lawsuit against the World Professional Association for Transgender Health (WPATH). The lawsuit alleges that WPATH misrepresents the safety and effects of gender-affirming care for minors, claiming that its members financially benefit from this misrepresentation.

FTC Chair Andrew Ferguson stated that the commission will not permit parents to be deceived by medical organizations prioritizing profit over children's health. WPATH responded by asserting that its guidelines emphasize individualized treatment rather than a one-size-fits-all approach.

This lawsuit follows an investigation launched by the FTC into WPATH, which previously sought a court order to halt the probe, arguing it infringed on its First Amendment rights. A federal judge granted WPATH a temporary order to stop the investigation.

The FTC is also investigating the American Academy of Pediatrics and the Endocrine Society regarding their guidelines on gender-affirming care.