Kansas Governor Vetoes Bill Banning Gender-Affirming Care for Minors

Governor Laura Kelly’s veto of the GOP-backed bill faces likely override by the Republican-controlled legislature.

Kansas Governor Laura Kelly vetoed Senate Bill 63, which sought to ban gender-affirming medical care for transgender minors, including surgeries, hormone therapy, and puberty blockers.
This marks the third consecutive year Kelly has vetoed similar legislation, citing concerns over parental rights and government overreach in private medical decisions.
The bill passed the Kansas legislature with significant majorities, and Republican leaders have indicated they plan to override the veto swiftly.
Proponents of the bill argue it protects minors from irreversible medical decisions, while opponents emphasize the medical necessity and mental health benefits of such care for transgender youth.
If the veto is overturned, Kansas would join at least 26 other states that have enacted restrictions on gender-affirming care for minors since 2021.