Maryland has added gender-affirming care to its definition of legally protected health care, affirming its status as a sanctuary state for transgender people and healthcare providers. House Bill 691, also known as the Trans Shield Act, went into effect on Oct. 1, shielding patients and medical providers from out-of-state prosecution and investigations. It makes Maryland the 17th state to have shield law protections for gender-affirming health care, according to UCLA Law . A D.C. shield law took effect in 2022. “This law empowers individuals to access healthcare without fear of repercussions, making gender-affirming healthcare accessible to all,” Lauren Pruitt, legal director of FreeState Justice, a Maryland LGBTQ advocacy group, said in a statement. 

The Trans Shield Act is officially in effect in Maryland! Otherwise known as HB0691, this piece of legislation protects access to gender-affirming care in MD by adding it to the state’s definition of legally protected healthcare. This does a variety of essential things, from ensuring locals can access the care they need to safeguarding both clients and their physicians from legal action by any other states trying to prosecute them for receiving/giving this care. But most importantly, as FSJ’s Legal Director, Lauren Pruitt , emphasizes, this Act makes Maryland a Sanctuary for all. “Maryland's status as a sanctuary state is a beacon of inclusivity and compassion, affirming that it values the well-being and contributions of all its residents and welcomes everyone with open arms,” says Pruitt. “This law empowers individuals to access healthcare without fear of repercussions, making gender-affirming healthcare accessible to all. It highlights the importance of gender-affirming care and enables practitioners to provide optimal care without concern for criminal liability.”