San Diego, January 31, 2026
California Attorney General Rob Bonta has filed a lawsuit against Rady Children’s Health for terminating its gender-affirming care program for patients under 19. Bonta claims this decision breaches state law and merger conditions mandated during Rady’s merger with CHOC in 2024. The lawsuit emphasizes the importance of ensuring healthcare access for transgender youth, as the discontinuation poses risks to their well-being and support systems.
San Diego, California – Attorney General Sues Rady Children’s Health Over Gender-Affirming Care
California Attorney General Rob Bonta has filed a lawsuit against Rady Children’s Health for discontinuing its gender-affirming care program for patients under 19 years old, alleging violations of state law and merger conditions.
As issues related to healthcare access and rights continue to evolve, California remains at the forefront of significant legal battles. Attorney General Bonta’s recent lawsuit against Rady Children’s Health serves as a landmark case that underscores the ongoing challenges surrounding youth healthcare services. As local entrepreneurs and health providers grapple with regulatory frameworks, this lawsuit highlights the need for clarity and adherence to established agreements for the benefit of all Californians, especially underserved populations.
The lawsuit, filed on January 30, 2026, comes after Rady Children’s Health announced the discontinuation of its gender-affirming care services. The Attorney General asserts that this change violates the legally binding conditions set forth during the merger of Rady Children’s Health with Children’s Hospital of Orange County (CHOC) in November 2024. These conditions specifically require the continuation of specialized healthcare services, including gender-affirming care, through 2034, to ensure patients do not face discrimination based on their gender identity. The hospital’s decision was met with significant concern from stakeholders advocating for access to essential healthcare services for minors as it threatens to disrupt the support system for transgender youth in San Diego.
Legal Allegations and Implications
The lawsuit against Rady Children’s Health argues that the discontinuation of the gender-affirming care program violates both California state law and the merger conditions established during its merger with CHOC. Bonta’s legal action seeks to obtain a permanent injunction to restore gender-affirming care services to their previous levels, alongside potential civil penalties and other equitable relief. This case showcases the Attorney General’s commitment to upholding the law and protecting the healthcare rights of Californians.
Moreover, this legal claim follows several recent initiatives led by Attorney General Bonta aimed at safeguarding access to gender-affirming care across the state. Notably, Bonta has co-led legal action against federal measures that could threaten this access, indicating a proactive stance in defending the rights of individuals needing gender-affirming healthcare. As the landscape of healthcare evolves in California, these efforts reflect ongoing conversations around the intersection of healthcare, regulation, and patient rights.
Key Features of the Lawsuit
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Defendant | Rady Children’s Health |
| Allegation | Unlawful discontinuation of gender-affirming care for patients under 19 years old |
| Legal Basis | Violation of state law and merger conditions |
| Requested Relief | Permanent injunction to restore services, civil penalties, and other equitable relief |
| Attorney General’s Statement | Emphasis on upholding the law to ensure access to gender-affirming care without undue obstacles |
Community Impact and Future Outlook
The implications of this lawsuit extend beyond the immediate legal framework as they can potentially influence other healthcare providers and institutions across California. Hospitals and healthcare systems may be prompted to reassess their policies regarding similar services to align with legal expectations. This attention to compliance could promote a more consistent approach to gender-affirming care, which is crucial for many young individuals and their families navigating these profound decisions.
The ongoing dialogue surrounding gender-affirming care reflects broader societal themes of acceptance, inclusivity, and the importance of access to comprehensive healthcare services. As the Attorney General’s office takes a firm stand, it invites further discussion and engagement from community stakeholders, healthcare providers, and policymakers in addressing the needs of vulnerable populations.
Conclusion
The lawsuit against Rady Children’s Health stands as a significant moment in California’s legal and healthcare landscape, raising critical questions about access and rights within the realm of gender-affirming care. As the case unfolds, it serves as an essential reminder of the importance of upholding merger agreements that promise essential services while highlighting the ongoing commitment to ensuring that all individuals receive the healthcare they need. Engaging with local businesses and healthcare providers, as well as remaining informed about advancements in policy and law, will be vital as San Diego and California continue to navigate these complex issues.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the lawsuit filed by Attorney General Bonta about?
The lawsuit filed by Attorney General Bonta against Rady Children’s Health alleges that the hospital unlawfully discontinued its gender-affirming care program for patients under 19 years old, violating state law and merger conditions.
What were the conditions of the merger between Rady Children’s Health and CHOC?
The merger conditions required Rady Children’s Health to maintain existing levels of specialty healthcare services, including gender-affirming care, through 2034, and prohibited discrimination based on gender identity.
What is the significance of this lawsuit?
The lawsuit aims to restore gender-affirming care services to their previous levels and types, ensuring continued access to necessary healthcare for transgender minors in California.
Has Attorney General Bonta taken other actions related to gender-affirming care?
Yes, Attorney General Bonta has previously co-led lawsuits challenging federal actions that threaten access to gender-affirming care, including a December 2025 lawsuit against the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services’ declaration and an August 2025 lawsuit against the U.S. Department of Justice’s threat to prosecute providers of such care.
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Author: STAFF HERE SAN DIEGO WRITER
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