In Raleigh, the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services awarded a three‑year, $1.28 million grant to the Charlotte Transgender Healthcare Group, a nonprofit co‑founded by plastic surgeon Dr. Eric Emerson. The grant has drawn sharp criticism from detransitioner Prisha Mosley and the NC Values Coalition, a conservative Christian advocacy group, who argue the funding conflicts with the state’s 2023 law that bans pediatric gender treatments.
Background of the lawsuit
Mosley, now 28, testified before the General Assembly in 2022 about the “severe and lasting injuries” she suffered after being persuaded as a teenager that she was a boy. At age 16 she began receiving Depo‑Provera to stop menstruation, followed by testosterone at 17, and at 18 she underwent top surgery that removed her breasts. She filed a lawsuit in Gaston County in 2023 alleging fraud, civil conspiracy, medical malpractice and negligent infliction of emotional distress against Dr. Emerson and other providers.
A state judge dismissed the case on procedural grounds, saying the claims were filed too late. Mosley is now appealing, citing a 2025 state law that extended the statute of limitations to ten years after discovery of alleged harm from pediatric gender treatments.
State grant details
The Department of Health and Human Services spokesperson James Werner said the grant is earmarked for adult mental‑health services, including case management, psychotherapy and linkage to medical services. The money comes from federal Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration funds and is intended for services to adults, not minors.
According to the nonprofit’s website, Charlotte Transgender Healthcare Group provides “health equity for transgender and gender‑diverse individuals” and lists puberty blockers, cross‑sex hormones and gender‑affirming care for children as treatment options. The organization received $780,000 in fiscal years 2025‑2026 and is slated for an additional $500,000 in 2027.
Criticism from faith‑based advocates
Tami Fitzpatrick, executive director of the NC Values Coalition, called the grant “outrageous,” saying it funds a group founded by the surgeon who performed Mosley’s surgery despite the state’s ban on pediatric gender treatments. “It shows that some people put ideology and their own idea of morality above the law and victim testimony,” Mosley told The Center Square.
Fitzpatrick added that the grant appears to contradict the 2023 law, which prohibits puberty blockers, cross‑sex hormones and surgeries for anyone under 18. The coalition, which invited Mosley to speak before lawmakers, argues that the funding undermines the intent of the law and the testimony of detransitioners.
State response
Werner maintained that the grant complies with both state and federal regulations, including an executive order issued by former President Donald Trump that bars federal funds from being used to “promote gender ideology.” He said the department has not yet provided detailed oversight records to show how the funds are kept separate from any outreach to minors.
Dr. Emerson declined to comment on the grant, stating he is no longer a member of the nonprofit and has retired from active practice.
Broader context
North Carolina is one of 27 states that have enacted laws restricting or banning pediatric gender treatments. The 2023 legislation was passed over the governor’s veto, reflecting strong legislative support for parental‑rights and child‑protection arguments.
Mosley has traveled to at least 22 states, including Florida, Louisiana, Ohio and Texas, to testify in support of similar bans. Her case highlights ongoing tensions between state policymakers, advocacy groups, and healthcare providers over the legality and ethics of pediatric gender treatments.
Original reporting: KTBS 3 (Shreveport) — read the source article.
