Lawrence City Commission – August 2, 2023

At its meeting on Tuesday, Aug. 1, the Lawrence City Commission passed Ordinance No. 9999 on second and final reading. This ordinance declares Lawrence to be a safe haven for all persons from the effects of discriminatory acts, legislation, regulation and other actions.

The ordinance was drafted through collaboration between members of the No SB180 in Lawrence Campaign, local attorney David Brown, consultant Alex Kimball-Williams, and City staff, in response to several members of the community voicing concerns regarding Kansas Senate Bill 180 (SB180). The City heard from dozens of community members, including many who identify as transgender, who wanted stronger protections from discriminatory practices. In an effort to ensure Lawrence is an inclusive community where all people enjoy life and feel at home, the new ordinance was adopted to strengthen protections for the transgender community and to ensure that “all persons” are protected from discrimination.

“We are committed to making Lawrence an equitable community where all people feel safe to be who they are,” said Dr. Farris Muhammad, Director of Equity and Inclusion. “We are proud to have this ordinance officially adopted as it formally signals something that we’ve believed for a long time. We will continue to work diligently to protect all marginalized community members, including our trans community, against discrimination.”

This organization is dedicated to making sure community members feel safe and are able to fully enjoy their lives living in, working in and visiting Lawrence. City staff worked closely with members of the community to draft this safe haven ordinance. The team is appreciative of everyone who advocated for and participated in this process.

Among other protections, the ordinance notes these safeguards. To the extent allowed by law, the City will not:

• Gather or disseminate information regarding any person’s “biological sex, either male or female, at birth.”
• Assist or cooperate in any investigation, detention, or arrest procedures related to SB180, as enacted, by any jurisdiction having authority to enforce it.
• Assist or cooperate in any investigation, surveillance, or gathering of information related to SB180, as enacted, by any jurisdiction having authority to enforce it.
• Include, on any City application, questionnaire, or interview form, in relation to benefits, services, or opportunities offered or provided by the City, any question regarding any person’s “biological sex, either male or female, at birth.”

City leaders will continue to do everything possible to make sure Lawrence is – and will remain – a safe and welcoming place for all.