Kansas City Leads the Way in Gender-Affirming Healthcare Access Amidst Missouri Restrictions.

Kansas City has passed a resolution declaring itself a "safe haven" for gender-affirming care, in defiance of recent Missouri legislation restricting access to healthcare for transgender people. The policy applies only to city staff and agencies, directing them to not criminally prosecute or penalize anyone for providing, seeking, receiving, or helping someone get gender-affirming health care. The resolution encourages the Kansas City Police Department to adopt a similar policy, but it does not apply to the department as it is under state control. The Missouri bills banning gender-affirming care for kids under 18 and transgender athletes from playing on sports teams that align with their gender identity are expected to be signed into law by Gov. Mike Parson.