Ban on trans health care for kids heads to Missouri governor

Transgender minors won't have access to puberty blockers, hormones or surgery under legislation passed in Missouri. Lawmakers approved the ban Wednesday, sending it to Republican Gov. Mike Parson for his signature. Parson had warned lawmakers to pass the bill or he'd make them keep working past the normal end of their session. The prohibition would take effect Aug. 28 and expire four years later. Minors already receiving gender-affirming care will be exempt. The ban also affects some adults. Medicaid will no longer cover gender-affirming care in Missouri, and transgender and nonbinary prisoners and inmates would no longer be able to get surgeries.