Delawares Democratic governor on Friday signed an executive order protecting recipients and providers of gender-affirming care in the state.The order, signed by Gov. Matt Meyer at an LGBTQ+ community center in Rehoboth, makes Delaware a shield state for trans people and bans state agencies from providing medical records, data or billing information, or utilizing state resources that could help any criminal or civil investigation against someone receiving or providing gender-affirming care. Related Democratic Senators host Kennedy Center Pride concert in act of guerilla theater This is a form of saying, We are here, we exist and you cant ignore us. This is a protest, and a political act. California, New York, and 12 other states, and Washington, DC, have similar protections for trans people and their medical providers. Residents, along with patients traveling to shield states, can receive care without fear of retribution. Never Miss a Beat Subscribe to our newsletter to stay ahead of the latest LGBTQ+ political news and insights. Subscribe to our Newsletter today In Delaware, we cherish privacy, dignity and the right to make personal medical decisions, Meyer said at the signing ceremony. Everyone deserves the freedom to access healthcare rooted in science and compassion.The governors order follows the Supreme Courts decision last week in U.S. v Skrmetti that upheld Tennessees ban on gender-affirming care for trans youth. Violations of that law can result in fines, professional discipline, and potential legal action against providers.U.S. Rep. Sarah McBride (D-DE), the first transgender member of Congress, weighed in on that decision Wednesday. This ruling underminesdoctors in delivering care to some of the most vulnerable patients in our country, she posted to X. The ruling in U.S. v. Skrmetti bans health care decisions made by patient and families in consultation with their doctors. Once again, politicians and judges are inserting themselves in exam rooms.This ruling undermines doctors in delivering care to some of the most vulnerable Congresswoman Sarah McBride (@Rep_McBride) June 18, 2025The Supreme Courts decision adds to a climate of fear for trans people in the wake of the presidents crusade against trans identity. Since taking office for the second time, hes signed executive ordersrecognizingonly two genders, called for trans athletes to be barred from play, instituted a military trans ban, eliminated x markers on passports, and worked to eradicate gender-affirming care.Delaware has a history of LGBTQ+ acceptance, including its election of McBride. The state legalized same-sex marriage in 2013 and has implemented anti-discrimination laws in housing, employment, and public accommodations.Fridays signing at CAMP Rehoboth Community Center was followed by the first meeting of Delawares new LGBTQ Commission, which will work to protect the rights of LGBTQ+ Delawareans.Transgender Delawareans and those traveling here for care can now breathe a little easier, said Cora Castle, chair of the new commission. This executive order reflects what science and medical experts have made clear for years: gender-affirming care is lifesaving. It also shows what happens when people with lived experience are trusted to help shape policy we lead with both empathy and evidence. Delaware is proving what it means to protect all its people.Subscribe to theLGBTQ Nation newsletterand be the first to know about the latest headlines shaping LGBTQ+ communities worldwide.