Ohio’s Republican-dominated Senate overrode Governor Mike DeWine’s veto to pass a law prohibiting gender-affirming surgeries and hormone therapies for minors. The law also restricts mental health care for transgender individuals under 18 and bans transgender girls and women from participating in girls and women’s sports teams at both the K-12 and collegiate levels. The override, mostly along party lines, was passed with a 24-8 vote.
This decision has left many families of transgender children in a state of uncertainty. Kat Scaglione, a parent of two transgender children, expressed the dilemma her family faces, including considering moving out of Ohio despite recently settling in a supportive community.
Governor DeWine had vetoed the legislation, citing government overreach on medical decisions. However, he previously signed an executive order banning gender-affirming surgeries for minors, despite medical professionals asserting such surgeries are not performed in the state. He also proposed rules affecting transgender adults, drawing criticism from Democrats and LGBTQ+ advocates.
Senator Kristina Roegner, a Republican, sparked controversy with her remarks denying the existence of gender-affirming care and a gender spectrum. Her comments were met with protests from LGBTQ+ advocates in the Senate chamber.
The law is part of a broader trend, with at least 23 states enacting similar restrictions. However, these laws have faced legal challenges, with mixed court rulings. The Biden administration is finalizing a rule to establish that blanket bans on transgender athletes would violate Title IX.
Senate Minority Leader Nickie J. Antonio and Equality Ohio’s Public Policy Director Maria Bruno expressed disappointment with the law, emphasizing the need to protect transgender residents and their families. Advocates, though fatigued, are determined to explore legal and legislative options to counteract the law’s impact.
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