Two transgender boys from Boone County, Missouri, have filed a federal lawsuit against the University of Missouri Health System for denying treatment for gender dysphoria. The lawsuit was filed in the United States District Court Western District of Missouri.

In recent years, Missouri Gov. Mike Parson signed legislation that limited certain transgender health care services to minors under the age of 18. The plaintiffs argue that this law violates their right to receive necessary medical care and that it is discrimination based on sex and disability.

The health system receives federal financial assistance, which attorneys argue binds the health system to prohibit discrimination on the grounds of sex or disability. However, attorneys allege that the UM health system discontinued care for these boys despite a purported “grandfather clause” that allowed minors already receiving transgender health care prior to the passage of the legislation to continue receiving care.

The plaintiffs are seeking an eventual permanent injunction prohibiting the health system from denying treatment recommended by their doctors. They are also seeking compensatory damages, recovery of litigation costs and attorneys fees. As of now, the university is evaluating the lawsuit and reviewing their approach in light of legal obligations.