PHOENIX (AP) - The Phoenix Healthcare Task Force has approved transgender-inclusive benefits for city employees.

Mayor Greg Stanton says Phoenix will be the first city in Arizona taking such strong steps to support a diverse workforce.

In a statement Thursday, Stanton says he applauds the members on the Healthcare Taskforce for “their forward-thinking leadership. “

He says providing transgender-inclusive health services is vital to the well-being of city employees and makes Phoenix a more sought-after employer.

Stanton also says it “is simply the right thing to do.”

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