Ohio Governor Mike DeWine has vetoed House Bill 68, which contains the “Save Adolescents from Experimentation Act” and the “Save Women’s Sports Act.” In a statement, DeWine expressed his belief that concerns from the legislature can be effectively addressed through administrative rules rather than passing the bill.
DeWine has outlined plans to draft rules aimed at addressing gender-affirming care. These rules would include bans on surgeries for minors as well as restrictions on “pop-up clinics” serving the transgender community. At least 20 states in the United States have implemented similar restrictions on gender-affirming care, some of which have faced legal challenges.
It is important to note that the bill could still go into effect if 60% of the state legislature votes to override the governor’s veto.
Gender-affirming care encompasses several medical procedures such as puberty blockers, hormone therapy, and surgeries. These treatments are crucial in helping transgender individuals explore their gender identity and align their physical appearance.
Medical associations have thrown their support behind gender-affirming care, highlighting its effectiveness and importance for the mental and physical health of transgender individuals. It should be noted that transgender youth face an increased risk of mental health issues and suicide due to discrimination and gender dysphoria.
Supporters of the restrictions on gender-affirming care believe that gender transitioning is harmful and argue that patients should wait until they are older to make such decisions. Critics, on the other hand, contend that these laws limit the autonomy of families and physicians when it comes to making healthcare decisions, ultimately harming transgender youth.
Additionally, the bill includes provisions regarding transgender girls participating in girls’ and women’s sports, although it should be noted that Ohio’s current transgender policy already allows transgender students to participate.
This is not the first time such a provision has been proposed in the Ohio legislature. Last year, a bill with a similar provision failed to be passed into law.
Governor DeWine’s veto of House Bill 68 sends a message that he is prioritizing finding alternative solutions to address concerns surrounding gender-affirming care, rather than passing a bill that some argue could harm transgender individuals and limit their access to necessary healthcare. The future of this bill now rests in the hands of the Ohio state legislature.
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