Issue
The fair housing ordinance in Blue Springs, Missouri, prohibits discrimination on the basis of race, sex, color, religion, religious affiliation, national origin, ancestry, handicap or familial status of any person. However, it does not include protections based on sexual orientation or gender identity.
Impact
Over 2,000 LGBT people live in Blue Springs, including 1,700 adults and 400 youth. More than 200 of them are transgender. These LGBT residents would gain protection from housing discrimination if the ordinance passes.
Summary
LGBT people face high levels of discrimination, which can negatively impact their economic stability and health. Adding sexual orientation and gender identity to the fair housing ordinance would not be costly or burdensome for the city to enforce.