A federal judge in Texas has temporarily halted subpoenas seeking the medical records of transgender patients treated at New York hospitals. The ruling, issued Wednesday, blocks prosecutors from obtaining the documents in a criminal probe centered on gender-affirming care.
The case pits a Texas-led investigation against New York's shield laws protecting transgender patients and providers. The legal clash raises questions about interstate enforcement and patient privacy rights. Critics warn the subpoenas could chill access to care.
The judge's order is temporary pending further arguments. The Department of Justice has not commented on the ruling. New York officials have vowed to defend their laws against what they call an overreach by Texas authorities.
If the block is lifted, medical records of hundreds of patients could be turned over. Advocates for transgender rights say this would deter people from seeking necessary care. The case could set a precedent for how states handle cross-border healthcare disputes.
Legal experts note such inter-state conflicts over medical care are rare but increasingly common. The ruling signals a likely prolonged court battle.