A federal judge has struck down a Florida ban that would have restricted Medicaid coverage of gender dysphoria treatments for members of the transgender community.

United States District Judge Robert Hinkle wrote in his ruling that, “gender identity is real,” and that the state admitted as much.

He also said Florida chose to block payment for some treatments because of political reasons. The governor’s office has not publicly responded to the ruling.

Hinkle was appointed by President Bill Clinton in 1996.

The judge wrote that a Florida Health Code rule and a new state law violated federal laws on Medicaid coverage, equal protection, and the Affordable Care Act’s prohibition of sex discrimination.

Come Out With Pride vice president Maia Money says the ruling is a small step forward for the transgender community.

“I mean, it’s another step along the path that will vindicate trans people and who we are,” said Monet.

The 52-year-old says she transitioned when she was 39 and believes health care coverage has turned into a political issue.

“It’s something every major medical and psychological association in the world already knows," Monet said. "But for political reasons, we are being picked on right now."

Monet said she and others in the transgender community believe the approach to dealing with these kinds of health care issues needs to come from the national level.