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Recently, President Trump enacted two significant executive orders titled “Defending Women from Gender Ideology Extremism and Restoring Biological Truth to the Federal Government” and “Protecting Children from Chemical and Surgical Mutilation.” In response, the Office of Personnel Management (OPM) has released new guidance intended to influence the benefits and operational structures of the Federal Employees Health Benefits (FEHB) program for the 2026 plan year.
Gender Identity
The initial executive order mandates that federal agency policies and documentation recognize only two genders, male and female. This means no alternative options or requests related to gender identity will be entertained, and all FEHB carriers must be in compliance by the beginning of plan year 2026.
Gender-Affirming Care
The second executive order stipulates that all FEHB carriers are to “exclude coverage for pediatric transgender surgeries or hormone treatments” aimed at gender transition for dependents younger than 19 years. Carriers are also tasked with identifying any resulting premium reductions from these exclusions and factoring them into their proposals for benefits and rates for plan year 2026.
While carriers can opt to continue providing gender-affirming care for individuals aged 19 and above, it is not a requirement. Since 2016, OPM has prohibited FEHB carriers from excluding services, medications, or supplies related to treating gender dysphoria. Federal employees dependent on these services are encouraged to thoroughly review their plan options during the upcoming enrollment period to understand which plans will maintain coverage and what levels of care will be offered.
Obesity Management
On January 15, OPM announced a new requirement for FEHB carriers to provide a comprehensive obesity management program in plan year 2026. This program is expected to include screenings, support services, a dedicated care team with dietitians and physicians experienced in obesity management, as well as ongoing patient monitoring and medication assessments. However, OPM’s guidance for the coming year has removed this requirement, leading to questions about future obesity management services within the program.
The Final Word
OPM gives FEHB carriers the flexibility to offer additional benefits in 2026, as long as they comply with relevant laws and guidelines. Nonetheless, OPM stresses the importance of delivering optimal coverage at the most affordable price for plan members. Federal employees and annuitants are encouraged to carefully evaluate their health plan options this fall before making selections for the upcoming year.
Kevin Moss is a senior editor with the Guide to Health Plans for Federal Employees provided by Consumers’ Checkbook. Watch more of his free advice and check here to see if the Guide is available for free from your agency. You can also purchase the Guide and save 20% with promo code GOVEXEC.
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