Judge Strikes Down Biden-Era Privacy Rule Protecting Abortion and Gender Transition Patients
A federal judge in Texas has voided a rule by the Biden administration enhancing privacy for women seeking abortions and patients undergoing gender transition treatments. The judge ruled that the Department of Health and Human Services exceeded its authority, impacting state enforcement of public health laws.
A Texas federal judge has invalidated a Biden administration rule designed to protect the privacy of women seeking abortions and patients receiving gender transition treatments. U.S. District Judge Matthew Kacsmaryk, citing overreach by the Department of Health and Human Services, limited states' enforcement of public health laws with Wednesday's decision.
The rule prohibited healthcare providers and insurers from sharing information regarding abortions with state law enforcement seeking punishment. Judge Kacsmaryk, appointed by former President Donald Trump, criticized HHS for establishing protections for politically sensitive medical procedures without clear authority.
The decision halts the rule's enforcement nationwide, coinciding with ongoing legal challenges from Texas and other states. HHS, appointed by Trump leadership, is reevaluating its stance as legal battles continue over the administration's efforts to safeguard reproductive healthcare access after Roe v. Wade's overturn.
(With inputs from agencies.)
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