Gov. Mike DeWine’s veto of a bill that would have prohibited transgender children from participating in girls’ sports and restricted access to certain gender-related medical procedures for transgender children under the age of 18 has sparked varied reactions. Despite the bill receiving support from nearly all of DeWine’s Democratic colleagues, some members of LGBTQ communities and child health advocates opposed it.
“In the end, I think it’s about saving lives,” DeWine said, emphasizing the importance of gut-wrenching choices being made by parents, guided by doctors and medical experts. He shared that some parents told him their child might be dead now if they had not received this care, highlighting the critical role of parents in making such decisions rather than the government.
Ohio hospitals have clarified that they do not perform gender reassignment procedures on children. However, DeWine expressed his intention to establish state regulations to ensure that adolescents in Ohio are not subjected to gender transition surgery.
Congressional Officials in Ohio Respond
House Speaker Jason Stephens (R-Kitts Hill) expressed disappointment over DeWine’s veto of House Bill 68, the SAFE Act, and Save Women’s Sports. Stephens noted that the House had devoted nearly three years to crafting the bill with the intent to empower families and protect children. The bill passed both chambers with veto-proof majorities, and Stephens indicated that they would discuss potential next steps.
The bill was approved with 62 to 27 votes in the House and Senate, respectively.
Sen. Kristina Roegner (R-Hudson) released a statement echoed by Senate President Matt Huffman, expressing disappointment in the governor’s decision. Roegner hoped that the House and Senate would overturn the veto.
House Minority Leader Allison Russo (D-Upper Arlington) described the veto as a much-needed sign of support for Ohio’s LGBTQ+ youth and community and a victory for parental rights.
Lt. Governor Jon Husted, who plans to run for governor in 2026, also expressed disapproval of HB 68 on social media, stating that men should not participate in girls’ sports and permanent medical decisions regarding gender should not be made in childhood.
Similar Rules Being Contested in Court
At least 22 states have laws prohibiting gender-affirming care for children under 18. However, these laws have been halted in at least six states due to constitutional challenges, including claims of violating the 14th Amendment’s equal protection guarantee.
Support for the Bill Vastly Outweighed by Criticism
The bill’s supporters, including relatives of trans children and individuals who regretted undergoing sex reassignment treatments, were outnumbered by those testifying against it. Health professionals and institutions, such as Nationwide Children’s Hospital, Cincinnati Children’s, and Akron Children’s Hospital, also opposed the bill. Over 240 individuals, including children and transgender activists, testified against the bill, citing potential psychological harm to trans youth.
Ohio Politicians’ Remarks Regarding House Bill 68
The bill, sponsored by Rep. Gary Click (R-Vickery), a Baptist pastor, was passed earlier this month by the Republican-controlled Ohio House and Senate. However, Senate Minority Leader Nickie Antonio (D-Lakewood), the first openly gay legislator, expressed hope for an end to the legislature’s conflict with the LGBTQ community. Antonio asserted, “There isn’t a closet big enough to send us all back to. We’re not going.”
