Boston has joined San Francisco and Seattle in banning all non-essential city-sponsored travel to North Carolina.

 

The ban comes after North Carolina passed a law that blocks local governments from passing anti-discrimination rules that would protect people who are gay or transgender. It also requires people to use public restrooms that correspond to their biological sex, instead of their gender identity. 

 

City council passed the measure unanimously Wednesday. Except for public safety, public health and contractual issues, there will be no city-sponsored travel to North Carolina. 

 

Mayor Marty Walsh signed the travel ban, saying it shows Boston's belief in equality. It went into effect immediately.